September–October 2017 Annual Subscription ` 80/-

1 MAHANT MAHARAJ IN HOUSTON & DALLAS, TX, USA 10–20 August 2017 1. A grand public satsang assembly for devotees and wellwishers in the Southwest region held at the Verizon Theater in Dallas (20 August). 2. Youths present a programme in an evening satsang assembly during Swamishri’s stay in Houston between 10 and 20 August. Inset: Swamishri on stage during an assembly.

Title Page: Mahant Swami Maharaj in Robbinsville, NJ (29 August 2017). 2 September–October 2017, Vol. 40, No. 5

Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj

SWAMINARAYAN AKSHARPITH CONTENTS 4 A Coarse Shawl 7 Adhyãy 4: Divine Birth and Actions 13 : A Brief Introduction 19 The Transforming Company of 57 Mahant Swami Maharaj’s Vicharan Gunatitanand Swami 61 Living with Swamishri 27 Inspirer of Spiritual Knowledge 63 Answers and Revelations 30 Mahant Swami Maharaj: 65 His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj UK & USA Vicharan Meets Former President Barack 51 Historic Acclamation of the Akshar- Obama Purushottam Doctrine in Kashi 66 BAPS News

In April 1978, inspired and inaugurated the first issue of Bliss in Ahmedabad, . The bi-monthly magazine serves to enlighten BAPS youths, seniors and well-wishers about the glory of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, the Akshar-Purushottam philosophy and the Gunatit guru parampara. It also seeks to inspire the universal values and traditions of to pursue a happy and peaceful life by serving God and humankind.

Founder: HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj SUBSCRIPTION RATES Editor: Sadhu Swayamprakashdas Outside (By Air Mail) India Contributors: Sadhu Vivekjivandas, Sadhu Amrutvijaydas Rupees Pounds US Dollars Rupees Designer: Sadhu Shrijiswarupdas 1 Year 630 9 14 80 2 Years 1300 18 28 150 Published & Printed by: Swaminarayan Aksharpith, Shahibaug, 3 Years 1900 27 42 220 Ahmedabad - 380004. India

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 3 SWAMINARAYAN HISTORY: Translation by Sadhu Vivekjivandas

Each day, Jiva Khachar would send milk and curd for Shri Hari. He wished that Maharaj con- sumed them daily, but Shri Hari was more in- clined towards ’s hospitality and seva. Subsequently, when Jiva Khachar came to know of this he perceived human traits (manushy- abhav) in Maharaj and started criticizing Dada Khachar. But Shri Hari did not allow him to suc- ceed. This fuelled Jiva Khachar’s jealousy and rage all the more. After Shri Hari finished having lunch he came to Dada’s courtyard to serve food to the sadhus. While Maharaj was serving motaiya laddus Mulji Brahmachari fanned him and Vasudevanand Brahmachari mopped the sweat on his face and arms. Shri Hari celebrated the festivals of Sharad Punam, annakut and Dharmadev’s birthday on Prabodhini Ekadashi.

HIS DEVOTION IS NOT COARSE A Coarse Shawl During the month of Magshar (November– After performing the -pratishtha December), in the winter season, Shri Hari gave darshan and discourses either in the Akshar Ordi of the shikharbaddha mandir in or the rooms in Dada Khachar’s darbar. On one Bhuj, Shri Hari returns to Gadhada. occasion while Maharaj was discoursing the shawl Here, he performs many lilas... draped around his shoulder slipped and fell on the floor. A devotee in the assembly got up and took out a thick shawl from his bag and wrapped n 1824, Shri Hari celebrated Janmashtami in it around Maharaj. Shri Hari was momentarily Gadhpur. He had invited devotees and sadhus startled at being draped with a weighty shawl. Ito attend the celebration. On looking up, he saw the devotee with folded hands. The new woollen shawl was coarse and PUJA OF ‘ ’ SCRIPTURE thick. It was abrasive and would bruise anyone On the day of Dashera Shri Hari went to with a soft, thin skin. Vadi to perform the customary pujan was quick to perceive the of the shami tree. Here, he also worshipped a new rough and prickly shawl. He got up to take it copy of the Moksha Dharma scripture – which away, saying, “Here Maharaj, take this soft shawl was one of his favourite scriptures. Thereafter, and wrap it around yourself. This coarse shawl Maharaj sat and delivered a discourse and re- will bruise your skin.” turned to Dada’s darbar with all the sadhus and Shri Hari smiled compassionately and opined, parshads for lunch. “But Swami the devotee’s love is not coarse; it is

4 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 soft and smooth. So, I find his thick shawl soft Shri Hari replied, “I have kept it for myself and silky. You can keep the soft shawl.” Shri Hari so I cannot give it to you. One can’t get a shawl thus returned it to Muktanand Swami. like this again.” Nityanand Swami and the other paramhan- Muktanand Swami added, “Maharaj, sas requested Maharaj to wear the soft shawl, Nirgunanandji [Gunatitanand Swami] is like but he declared, “I will now use this thick shawl Jad Bharat.1 If you give your shawl to him he all my life.” Everyone looked on helplessly. The will be happy.” Shri Hari smiled and got up, and devotee who had given his coarse shawl felt bad then took his thick shawl and draped it around and crestfallen. Shri Hari assuaged him, “Bhagat, Gunatitanand Swami, saying, “Here, take it you served me at the most opportune moment.” my Jad Bharat.” Swami then took it and left. From then onwards many paramhansas re- Thereafter, Muktanand Swami told the devotee, quested Maharaj to give them his coarse shawl, “Now you can drape Maharaj with your shawl.” but Shri Hari would instead wrap it tightly The devotee offered it to Shri Hari. around himself and remain relentless in his re- When the senior paramhansas came to know solve. Whenever a devotee offered him a thin, that Maharaj had at last parted with his coarse smooth shawl Maharaj would give it away and shawl and given it to Gunatitanand Swami and again tightly wrap himself with the coarse shawl. praised him as Jad Bharat they all realized the love Many times, Muktanand Swami, Nityanand Maharaj had for him. In addition, they also unani- Swami, , Dada Khachar, Sura mously agreed that Swami was truly indifferent to Khachar and others tried to get the coarse shawl material comforts and unaffected by adversities. from Maharaj, but he did not succumb to their pleas or efforts. THOSE WHO ABIDE BY DHARMA AND BHAKTI ARE MY RELATIVES HERE, TAKE IT MY JADBHARAT Once, when Maharaj was discoursing to On 17 December 1823 (Magshar sud 15, a satsang assembly in Gadhada, a devotee an- A.S. 1880) a devotee had brought a new shawl nounced, “The family of Dharmakul has arrived and showed it to Muktanand Swami, saying, in Gujarat.” Immediately Muktanand Swami “Swami, I wish to offer this shawl to Shri Hari.” asked him, “From where did you get the news?” Muktanand Swami called Gunatitanand Swami “Kashidas of Bochasan informed me that Shri and told him, “Maharaj wraps himself with a Hari’s brothers and their family have arrived in thick, coarse shawl given to him by a pious devo- Bochasan from Bamangam. Thus, I have come tee. He does not part with it in spite of sadguru here to inform you that they will be here in two sadhus having asked him to give it up. Whenever to three days’ time.” anyone offers him a thin shawl he takes it and Muktanand Swami enquired, “Do you know gives it away. You go and ask Maharaj to give you the names of the family members?” his thick shawl.” Gunatitanand Swami agreed and “Yes Swami. Maharaj’s eldest brother is took Muktanand Swami and the devotee who Rampratapbhai, his wife is Suvasini Bhabhi had brought a new shawl with him. Gunatitanand and their eldest son is Nandram, and Maharaj’s Swami prostrated before Maharaj and humbly Uncle Vishram’s son is Manchharam. Then requested, “Maharaj, I don’t have a warm shawl Maharaj’s youngest brother, Ichchharam, and his to wrap myself with. Please give me your thick wife, Variyali, have three sons, Gopal, Sitaram, shawl.” Badrinath, and Sufal is their material uncle.” 1. One who is not interested in physical comforts and pleasures.

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 5 Shri Hari was listening nonchalantly when Swami’s profound devotion and that was why Muktanand Swami asked, “Maharaj, Dharmadev’s he was able to guage Suvasini Bhabhi’s feelings family has arrived in Gujarat. Should we and the for him. Kathi Darbars go to receive them?” Muktanand Swami urged, “Maharaj, now Maharaj advised, “It will take two to three Suvasini Bhabhi is old. Your darshan will revive days for them to reach here. On the day after, her joy which had plummeted after your renun- Dada Khachar and Vasta Khachar can proceed ciation. If you go forward to give darshan to her ahead to honour them, and once the Dharmakul it will definitely add pride to your name and di- has arrived on the outskirts of Kariyani then all vinity. And if you don’t go then people will speak the sadhus and devotees can go to receive them.” unfavourably of you.” Shri Hari responded with Muktanand Swami asked Shri Hari, “Will you a calculated smile. not come?” Thereafter, Shriji Maharaj left Gadhada with Shri Hari replied, “I believed Dharmadev, my his entourage and travelled to Kariyani. father, to be an embodiment of dharma and hon- oured him, served him and finally granted him YOU SEEM TO BE A VERY WEALTHY moksha. I perceived Bhaktimata as an embodi- PERSON ment of bhakti, served her and also liberated her. In Kariyani, there was formerly an open space Wherever I am, my relatives, Dharma and Bhakti, instead of the shikharbaddha mandir that stands are with me. And those who possess the virtues of today. Here, Shri Hari sat on a specially made seat dharma and bhakti are also my relatives.” Then and started discoursing to an assembly. During Maharaj became quiet. that time a devotee arrived and told Shri Hari, Muktanand Swami felt a little strange on see- “Maharaj, I want to perform your pujan.” ing Maharaj being apathetic towards his own Shri Hari agreed, saying, “You may do so.” siblings and family members. So, he asked again, The devotee then smeared chandan paste mixed “Maharaj, you are Purushottam Narayan incar- with a little saffron (kesar) on Maharaj’s fore- nate. Thus, you are not bound to your relatives. head, applied a chandlo, offered a garland and But Suvasini Bhabhi had showered her love upon new clothes. Thereafter, he offered a donation you when you were a child, raised you and then of ` 200 at Maharaj’s feet. On seeing the gener- she became heartbroken and distraught when ous amount Shri Hari appreciated him and said, you left Ayodhya. Doesn’t her profound love “Bhagat, you seem to be very wealthy.” tantamount to bhakti for you! You should con- The devotee humbly replied, “Maharaj, I’ve sider her devotion and come to give darshan been toiling for years to offer you this amount. to her.” Today, you have fulfilled my wish.” Then Shriji Maharaj asked him, “But have you YOU SHOULD GIVE DARSHAN TO BHABHI kept some money to sustain yourself?” Shriji Maharaj understood the quintessence of The devotee replied, “Maharaj, with your Muktanand Swami’s words. Swami was compas- grace I get enough labour work to fend for my- sionate and that was why everyone in the Satsang self.” Shri Hari was immensely pleased with his community believed he was like a mother. Never profound devotion and sacrifice. u before had he argued against Maharaj and had (Contd. in next issue) always remained strictly respectful to him, but Translated from Gujarati text of today he spoke emphatically for the sake of the Bhagwan Swaminarayan by Shri H.T. Dave Dharmakul. Maharaj was aware of Muktanand

6 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 : Gujarati text: Sadhu Bhadreshdas (Shad Darshan , PhD, D.Litt.); Translation: Sadhu Paramvivekdas

ADHYÃY 4 Divine Birth and Actions Part 21

Á‹× ·¤×ü çÎÃØ×÷ – Divinity of Birth and Actions Shri Bhagwan says, ‘Á‹× ·¤×ü ¿ ×ð çÎÃØ×ðߢ Øô ßðçžæ ÌžßÌÑÐ ˆØ€ˆßæ Îðã¢U ÂéÙÁü‹× ÙñçÌ ×æ×ðçÌ âôÁéüÙH’ – ‘Janma cha me divyamevam yo vetti tattvataha, tyaktvã deham punarjanma naiti mãmeti sorju- na.’ – ‘O Arjuna, one who realizes that my birth and actions are completely divine does not attain another birth after departing from his body, but attains me’ (Gitã 4.9). What does divine mean? Divine means possessing ultimate powers. Divine means ul- ith the words, ‘Yadã yadã hi dhar- timately liberating, giving ultimate happiness, masya glãnirbhavati bhãrata, above the influences of mãyã and free from Wabhyut’thãnamadharmasya tadãt- any imperfections. mãnam srujãmyaham. Paritrãnãya sãdhoonãm vinãshãya cha dushkrutãm, dharmasansthã- Divinity: A Fact panãrthãya sambhavãmi yuge yuge’, the Gitã Divyabhãv is not a concocted psychological proclaimed the avatar principle. This we saw in thought process. It is not just a means found to the last article. Now, we will discuss some other hide mistakes. It is not a trick to keep gullible aspects mentioned in the fourth adhyãy. devotees captivated. It is a reality, a fact, a true The problem of perceiving human traits principle, and it is a doctrine. This is because in Paramãtmã (manushyabhãv) is associated Paramãtmã is truly divine. It is a weakness of with the avatar principle. When it is said that the human mind that it cannot comprehend Paramãtmã assumes an avatar a number of ques- that which is beyond the senses and beyond this tions arise in the mind, such as: Why did he take world. Its own conjectures prevent it from reach- birth? Does him taking birth infer that he has ing the realities of unknown territories. In such worldly desires? Did he experience the pain of circumstances, one who realizes one’s ignorance, taking birth? As he has taken a human form, surrenders to a capable guru and accepts what he do human feelings and instincts of pleasure and says can experience the bliss of the true, beautiful pain, love and hatred, thirst and longing arise in and auspicious realms. Divyabhãv is indeed such a him. The answer to all such questions is found realm. Shri Krishna Bhagwan has shown Arjuna, in the precept given to Arjuna by Shri Krishna: his devoted disciple who has sought his refuge, divyabhãv. the path to this realm.

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 7 The Purpose of Precepts on Divinity bhãvamajãnanto mama bhootamaheshvaram.’ To analyze others is a common human ten- Meaning: ‘The foolish disregard me, thinking me dency. That analysis is based on one’s own experi- to be a normal person who is born in a human ences. One’s own experiences are deeply affected body, because they do not know of my superior- by one’s nature, feelings, biases, relationships and ity as the controller of all living creatures’ (Gitã much more. 9.11). For example, if we see someone in misery, we Not knowing superiority infers not knowing also shudder, because we have experienced such how to apply the benchmark of divya- bhãv. To pain. We judge the subject’s feelings based on our overlook divinity is in itself ignorance. Referring own feelings and experiences. We, as it were, put to this shloka, Bhagwan Swaminarayan has ourselves in the subject’s spot. This happens in called such ignorance as foolishness as well many situations, both good and bad. Alongside (Vachanãmrut Panchãlã 7). our feelings, such judgements are skewed by our For this very reason, upon proclaiming the nature, biases, relationships, etc. Our weakness avatar principle, by giving precepts on divyabhãv is that it is through this skewed perspective that, in this shloka, care has been taken to make sure based on the events around us, we judge people that the divine acts of the avatars are not looked and their intentions of our own accord. Based at from a mundane perspective. on these judgments we make categories that we fit people into. These categories sometimes Á‹× çÎÃØ×÷ – Divine Birth even prove to be useful from a social perspec- ‘Á‹× çÎÃØ×÷ – Janma divyam’ means that the birth tive. Society even acknowledges those who make of Paramãtmã is divine. To be born means to attain such categories, regarding them to be experienced a human body. The manner in which Paramãtmã and wise. is born and the manner in which all other liv- As long as we use the above method to un- ing beings are born is different. Generally, a jiva derstand people we come into contact with, it is obtains a body due to its vãsanã. The bonds of not too big an issue. But if we use this method mãyã have caused it to be born time and time to understand avatars of Paramãtmã, i.e. satpu- again since time eternal. According to the fruits rushes, then the outcome is detrimental. This is of a jiva’s , Paramãtmã gives it new bod- because they are not like us, they are different. ies. Thus, all other living beings are born due We cannot judge them based on our feelings to their vãsanã bound by their karmas. That is and nature. Our intellect, moulded on worldly not the case with Paramãtmã. Paramãtmã is born experiences, is unequipped to fathom their life out of his own wish. If he so wishes, he can lib- and work. Considering them, a different type erate countless jivas whilst remaining in his di- of benchmark needs to be used. To understand vine abode alone. Nevertheless, out of extreme worldly things, we use worldly benchmarks; to compassion for the jivas that are wandering in understand things beyond this world, we need to creation, he takes birth to give them ultimate lib- use benchmarks that are beyond this world. The eration. He takes birth to give them bliss by his required otherworldly benchmark is divyabhãv. association. He takes birth to give them the bliss If one does not understand this benchmark, one of his form. He takes birth to fulfil the wishes of will make mistakes in understanding Paramãtmã. his devotees. He takes birth and becomes like one Shri Krishna Bhagwan says, ‘¥ßÁæÙç‹Ì ×æ¢ ×êÉUæ ×æÙéáè´ of us so that people can enjoy his bhakti and feel ÌÙé×æçŸæÌ×÷Ð ÂÚ¢U Öæß×ÁæÙ‹Ìô ×× ÖêÌ×ãðUEÚU×÷H’ – ‘Avajãnanti at ease with him. Karmas are under his control. mãm moodhã mãnusheem tanumãshritam, param In this manner, the birth of Paramãtmã is divine.

8 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 When a jiva is born in a body such as that of a are to liberate us and to please us. Thus, his ac- human, it undergoes the misery of staying in the tions are divine. womb. But that is not the case for Paramãtmã. Furthermore, the actions of ordinary jivas He indeed enters the mother’s womb, but he that have received a body are dependent on their does not experience the misery of the womb. senses. Without these senses, they cannot perform Whosoever’s womb he enters, he enters to give any action. For example, they cannot see without them his divine bliss. In this manner too, his birth eyes, they cannot taste without a tongue, they is divine. cannot feel without skin. Thus, a jiva’s actions are When a jiva is born from a womb, it forgets dependent on other factors. When Paramãtmã as- all previous experiences. That is not the case for sumes a body, he does not have these limitations. Paramãtmã. Even as a human, he is all-knowing. His actions are not dependent on the senses. He never loses his memory. Even before entering Indeed, it is true that he sees through his eyes the womb, and thereafter, he always knows about and hears through his ears, but he is not depend- the past, present and future. In this manner too, ent on them. With him, it is not the case that he his birth is divine. can see only if he has eyes and hear only if he Moreover, when Paramãtmã is born, the has ears. He is all-knowing. Thus, his actions are whole of creation undergoes a change. Upon his divine in this manner. A jiva’s actions are limited. coming, godly or pious jivas become extremely It cannot do many things at the same time. That pleased and demonic jivas become perplexed. In is not the case with Paramãtmã. He is able to do this manner, too, his birth is divine. countless actions simultaneously. Thus, his ac- Thus, so that we do not mistakenly assume tions are divine in this manner. Paramãtmã to be bound by karmas, have vãsanã, experience the misery of the womb, or lose his Divinity in Human-like Actions memory, etc., the Gitã explains the divinity of There is another side to the divinity of the birth of avatars. Paramãtmã’s actions. That is, recognizing the divinity of even his human-like actions. When ·¤×ü çÎÃØ×÷ – Divine Actions Paramãtmã shows human traits, we say he has Divinity of Ordinary Actions performed a human-like action. Both good and Life starts at birth. Life is swamped with kar- bad traits can be found in humans. For example, mas. We are continually doing something – speak- truthfulness, celibacy, tranquillity, forgiveness, ing, walking, sitting, standing, seeing, thinking… etc. are good traits. Whereas lust, anger, greed, one action follows another. Even if we sleep, kar- jealousy, ego, prejudice, ignorance, etc. are bad mas continue in our dreams. traits. When Paramãtmã assumes a human form, Generally, when a jiva does something, it does he takes on these traits. When he shows good so bound by its nature for some self-centred rea- traits, we do not feel that he has shown human- son. It does karmas to attain something it does like traits, but when he shows traits of lust, anger, not have. It does karmas to prevent someone greed, etc. divyabhãv is left aside and we see him taking away what it has attained. It does kar- as human. In such circumstances, if we truly be- mas out of fear. It does karmas instigated by its lieve him to be divine, then we can be said to have vãsanã. It does karmas incited by ego and vanity. understood divinity in all his actions. Paramãtmã’s actions are not as such, they are dif- Bhagwan Swaminarayan explains this divya- ferent. His actions are not self-centred, but are bhãv with the analogy of the ‘mãyã’ of a magi- performed only out of compassion. His actions cian. He says that just as the form of Paramãtmã

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 9 in Akshardhãm is resplendent with countless di- – without harbouring any doubts about the ap- vine powers and divine light, one should realize propriateness or inappropriateness of those ac- exactly the same regarding the manifest form of tions and incidents. Such a devotee should be Paramãtmã in human form. One who realizes this known as being ‘sthitapragna’ with regards to the is said to have known Paramãtmã perfectly. The nature of Purushottam (Vachanãmrut Gadhadã phases of childhood, youth and old age apparent II 17). in Paramãtmã, as well as his birth and death are Furthermore, quoting the shloka, ‘Á‹× ·¤×ü ¿ ×ð all perceived due to his yogic powers of creating çÎÃØ×÷’ Bhagwan Swaminarayan has called divya- an illusion. In reality, Paramãtmã remains abso- bhãv true bhakti. He says that when God assumes lutely unchanged. For example, an adept magi- a form like a human for the sake of the liberation cian arms himself with weapons and ascends to of the jivas and travels on this earth, many of the sky to fight against the warriors of the de- God’s actions are divine and many appear to be mons – the enemies of Indra. Then, having been mãyik. Even a sinner would perceive divinity in cut to pieces, he falls to the ground. Thereafter, the divine actions of God; a true devotee of God, the magician’s wife gathers those pieces together however, would perceive divinity even when and burns herself on his funeral pyre. After a God performs human-like actions (Vachanãmrut short while, the magician appears out of the sky, Gadhadã II 10). armed with weapons, exactly as he had appeared Here, we should understand that when before. He then asks the king for a reward and Paramãtmã and the satpurush show noble virtues, requests, “Please return my wife.” Having seen we feel as though we have divyabhãv in them. But such an astonishing performance, if one is unable if those feelings do not incorporate realizing them to comprehend the ‘mãyã’ of even a magician, to be Paramãtmã, and just incorporates thinking how then can the yogic powers of Paramãtmã them to be a good or noble person, then that too possibly be comprehended? However, one who is not divyabhãv, it is also a type of manushya- does comprehend the ‘mãyã’ of the magician, bhãv. The qualities and actions of Paramãtmã and realizes, ‘That magician has not died, nor has he the satpurush are above the three gunas, divine been burnt; in reality, he is exactly the same as he and unmatchable to anything mundane. If one was before.’ In a similar manner, one who is said has such feelings without any sort of comparison, to have realized the form of Paramãtmã perfectly then one can be said to have found the true direc- understands Paramãtmã to be eternal and imper- tion of divyabhãv. ishable – absolutely unchanging (Vachanãmrut Panchãlã 7). ×ð çÎÃØ×÷ – Divinity in the Manifest Form Bhagwan Swaminarayan has described the The words, ‘my birth and actions are divine’ sthitapragna defined in the second adhyãya of refer to the form directly before Arjuna’s eyes. The the Gitã on the basis of divyabhãv. For exam- underlying meaning to be understood here is that ple, he says that a devotee of Paramãtmã who, one must keep divyabhãv in the manifest form of entertaining no doubts at all regarding the na- Paramãtmã. It may be possible to keep divyabhãv ture of Paramãtmã, praises Paramãtmã’s weak- in the form of Paramãtmã that one cannot see, but nesses in exactly the same way that he glorifies it is difficult to keep divyabhãv in the manifest his strengths; and also praises those actions and form in front of oneself. Often, when we hear incidents of Paramãtmã that appear to be inap- about the incidents of previous avatars, we are propriate, in exactly the same way that he glori- delighted; but if the manifest form of Paramãtmã fies actions and incidents that are appropriate performs similar actions, our thoughts begin to

10 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 waver. This is why the Gitã subtly tells us to keep the , there are hun- divyabhãv in the manifest form of Paramãtmã one dreds of thousands of devotees who attained has attained. Thus, the principle of understand- the manifest form of Bhagwan Swaminarayan ing divyabhãv in human traits applies to the form in the form of Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami of Paramãtmã that is present at that time. For Maharaj. They understood him to be divine, and example, when Paramãtmã assumes an avatar by on experiencing his divine life and work, became specifically pervading another ãtmã, divyabhãv fulfilled. In the same manner, today, that same must be understood in that avatar. Paramãtmã is divinity is showered upon us by Param Pujya divine, therefore it is necessary to understand his Pragat Brahmaswarup Mahant Swami Maharaj, avatars as divine. The life stories of the avatars are and we all experience this. well-documented in our . For example, Thus, the lesson here is to keep divyabhãv in in his time Shri Krishna Bhagwan’s human-like Paramãtmã when he himself assumes a human actions were understood to be divine by the gopis, body, in the avatars which he has specifically per- and, by doing so, they pleased their beloved Shri vaded, and in the brahmaswarup gurus in whom Krishna Bhagwan. he completely resides. Moreover, when that same Paramãtmã as- Although the Gitã has briefly mentioned keep- sumes a human body himself, without specifi- ing divyabhãv in the human form of Paramãtmã, cally pervading another ãtmã, divaybhãv must Bhagwan Swaminarayan has elaborated on it in be affirmed in that form. For example, when great depth in his teachings. He has clarified the Parabrahman Purushottam Swaminarayan various aspects of this principle, and by raising Paramãtmã himself assumed a human form in possible questions he has given clear answers in this world, his sadhus and devotees affirmed di- accordance with the shastras. vyabhãv in him. They saw his human-like actions and, in his very presence, were delighted by them, ßðçžæ ÌžßÌÑ – To Know As Is praised them, wrote poems on them and thus at- The precepts on divinity are not just for the tained ultimate liberation. sake of information. Emphasis has been given on Furthermore, divyabhãv must be kept in the imbibing them in our lives. The words ‘evam yo manifest form of the Aksharbrahman guru in vetti tattvataha’ emphasize that the above pre- whom that same Paramãtmã completely resides. cepts are not to merely be heard. ‘Evam’ means Being eternally beyond mãyã, that brahmas- ‘in this manner’. This refers to what manner one’s warup guru is indeed eternally divine. But, more conviction in Paramãtmã must be, i.e. one’s con- importantly, it is through him that Paramãtmã viction in Paramãtmã should be such that one gives bliss to his devotees, and thus, for them, understands his birth and actions to be divine. he is the manifest form of Paramãtmã. In this Tattvataha means truly and completely, as it re- case, Paramãtmã has not specifically pervaded ally is, i.e. without prejudicing that knowledge the brahmaswarup guru, but eternally resides with one’s own opinions. Vetti means to imbibe in all entirety within him. Therefore, the guru in one’s life, to truly accept from within, to ex- is revered as the form of Paramãtmã himself. perience, to not just say – but to believe. One It is necessary for all spiritual aspirants to at- who does not understand divyabhãv as described tain divyabhãv in his actions. The reference to here, does not understand it completely, does not the manifest form of Paramãtmã with the words understand it as it is and does not imbibe it, re- ‘my birth and actions are divine’ refers to such mains aloof from the ultimate attainment, or even brahmaswarup gurus as well. For example, in obtains an unfavourable attainment. Thus, the

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 11 above precept has been given. It also explains understands me in this manner is also not bound that divyabhãv is a philosophical principle. It then by karmas’ (Gitã 4.14). goes on to explain what one who imbibes this The principle of becoming what one believes principle of divyabhãv attains. has been stated here. No matter what type of ac- tions the manifest form of Paramãtmã does, he Attainment is never tainted by those actions, he is also not ÂéÙÁü‹× ÙñçÌ ×æ×ðçÌ – To Be Rid of Rebirth and attached to the fruits of actions – one who keeps Attain Paramãtmã such divyabhãv, himself becomes divine. To rid Here, it mentions two attainments that those oneself of the taints of karmas, it is not neces- who are wed to divyabhãv receive. The first is sary to wrestle with those karmas; if one keeps ‘tyaktvã deham punarjanma naiti’ – after they divyabhãv in the manifest form of Paramãtmã, leave this body, they will never have to be born the taints of karmas dissolve by themselves. Thus, again. They are freed from the chains of mãyã. the power of divyabhãv has been revealed here. They are liberated. Secondly, ‘mãmeti’ – they at- Bhagwan Swaminarayan has also explained this tain Paramãtmã. principle of becoming what one believes. He says What divine fruits of divinity! All spiritual that one who believes Paramãtmã to be beyond endeavours are directed at ultimate liberation, mãyã himself transcends mãyã (Vachanãmrut and divyabhãv is an easy direct means to it. If Panchãlã 7), and if a person realizes Paramãtmã to one does millions of other spiritual endeavours, be absolutely flawless, then regardless of his own this still may not be one’s last birth; but if one swabhãvs, he himself becomes absolutely flawless keeps divyabhãv, then nothing remains to be as well (Vachanãmrut Gadhadã I 24). done. Paramãtmã is the greatest thing, invalu- able. Divyabhãv gives us the greatest gift –­ that Conclusion is the power of divyabhãv. Thus, here, the Gitã has lit the candle of divy- Bhagwan Swaminarayan has also said that to abhãv. The life of one who takes this light within keep divyabhãv in human-like actions is in itself one’s ãtmã will also become lustrous. The dark- bhakti. Only one who has such devotion can be ness of manushyabhãv will be eradicated. called a devotee, and only such a devotee attains We are extremely fortunate to have person- the ultimate abode. (Vachanãmrut Gadhadã II ally experienced the life of guruhari Pramukh 10). Mul Aksharmurti Gunatitanand Swami Swami Maharaj and today continue to experi- Maharaj has also attested to this saying that upon ence the life of guruhari Mahant Swami Maharaj. understanding the manifest form of Paramãtmã If we understand everything to do with them to to be absolutely flawless, nothing remains to be be completely flawless, liberating and divine, done ( 5.124). then the candle of divyabhãv has been lit within us and we have understood the essence of this Becoming What One Believes shloka. u Furthering this same topic of divinity, Shri Krishna Bhagwan says, ‘Ù ×æ¢ ·¤×æüç‡æ çܐÂç‹Ì Ù ×ð ·¤×üȤÜð SÂëãUæÐ °ß¢ Øô ×æ×çÖÁæÙæçÌ Ù â ·¤×üçÖÕüŠØÌðH’ – ‘Na mãm karmãni limpanti na me karmafale spruhã, evam yo mãmabhijãnãti na sa karmabhirbadhyate.’ Meaning, ‘Actions do not taint me; moreover, I do not covet the fruits of actions. One who

12 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 GURU PARAMPARA: Sadhu Vivekjivandas

his wondrous music and Charles Dickens rose to the pinnacle of literary fame and immortality; the unassuming Gunatitanand Swami was enlighten- ing, pacifying, and immortalising countless souls in Gujarat, India, with the magic of his spiritual wisdom and God-communion life. His renunciation of home, initiation, vigil in the rain for a glimpse of Maharaj, suffering of persecution at the hands of his detractors with- out a murmur, routine rounds for bhiksha despite insults, steadfastness to truth, service to ailing sadhus and bringing of relief to suffering human- ity were a reflection of his character as a sadhu of the first rank. He demonstrated his conviction for Bhagwan Swaminarayan, courage and desire to help others, genuine love for all people and a steadfastness through his saintliness.

CHILDHOOD YEARS Gunatitanand Swami was born on 28 Gunatitanand September 1784 (Aso sud Punam, AS. 1841) in a small village named Bhadra, on the west coast Swami of Gujarat. His father, Bholanath Sharma, and A Brief Introduction mother, Sakarba, were pious . From his childhood, he showed an extraordinary inclina- To commemorate Gunatitanand Swami’s tion for spirituality. Many times his parents and relatives were perplexed by his mystic utterings 233th birthday celebration on 5 October 2017 and subtle questions. (Sharad Punam) this year we present articles Once, Mulji, his childhood name, asked a ma- on his life, works and teachings... hant of a group of wandering sadhus, “What is ‘cause’ and what is ‘effect’?” The mahant and the rest of the audience were dumbfounded by his question. Seeing that no one could answer him, INTRODUCTION Mulji replied, “God is the ultimate cause and this In the latter half of the 18th century when world is God’s creation – an effect.” George Washington was appointed as the first His talent for presenting lofty ideas through President of the United States of America, when simple examples was a hallmark of his spiritual France lurched and buckled under a devastat- genius. Once, while he was going to his farm with ing revolution, when Darwin’s Origin of Species his friends, they all rushed to a nearby well. The stirred a furious controversy, when Beethoven water was covered with moss and algae. Mulji entertained the halls and courts of Vienna with dropped a stone and his friends joined in the

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 13 A monument on Gunatitanand Swami’s birthplace A shrine dedicated on his birthplace game. Soon, the layer of algae and moss parted Swami’s profound love for Maharaj was and the children saw their faces. They were ex- once revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan (Shriji cited and happy. Mulji explained, “When the sur- Maharaj) to his sadhus and devotees, “He is face was covered it seemed there was no water. my eternal abode, and dearest to me. His su- Similarly, the layer of ‘bad habits’ prevents us preme love for me is not of this life alone. He is from seeing God. Once that is removed our joy eternally in loving communion with me.” And will be multiplied a hundredfold.” Maharaj spoke at length on Swami’s greatness as This was not the first time that Mulji’s friends Aksharbrahman. had heard him speak about God. Once, one of As a mark of Gunatitanand Swami’s love his friends, out of curiosity asked, “You always for Maharaj, we find many instances where he talk about God, but tell me have you seen God?” personally volunteered when no one was ready Mulji replied, “I see God all the time.” to fulfil Maharaj’s wishes. On one occasion, And it was to bless countless with this vision that Bhagwan Swaminarayan, with a large group of Mulji left home to become a sadhu. He renounced sadhus, was on his way to a big festival in Vartal. home at the age of twenty-five and was initiated Midway, nineteen sadhus were taken ill. Shriji into the sadhu order by Bhagwan Swaminarayan Maharaj assembled all the sadhus and asked if in Dabhan and named Gunatitanand Swami. anyone was prepared to stay behind and nurse the ailing sadhus. There was silence. Everyone HIS LOVE FOR MAHARAJ was eager to go with him to the festival. At this Gunatitanand Swami had a deep attachment point, Gunatitanand Swami stood up and said for Bhagwan Swaminarayan. A love so profound that he would stay behind. Maharaj was im- and eternal that he never allowed an opportunity mensely pleased. for his darshan slip by. Once, he stood late in the Gunatitanand Swami tirelessly nursed the night drenched in rain to catch a glimpse of him. nineteen sadhus with care and patience. Within On another occasion he ran backwards all the a few days the sadhus recovered. With no further way from one town to another to have darshan of need of him, Gunatitanand Swami left for the Maharaj travelling on horseback. Gunatitanand festival. On arriving at the Vartal mandir, Maharaj Swami thus never missed an opportunity of hav- welcomed him with a warm embrace for his ser- ing his darshan. vice and obedience.

14 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 make arrangements for a home and livelihood?” One of the newcomers who had made all the ar- rangements for a night’s stay replied, “I would never set out for even a night without making any prearrangements.” “But when you leave this mortal body, where will you stay? Have you made any preparations?” Swami asked. The man and all the newcomers remained silent. Gunatitanand Swami revealed, “Satsang will strengthen you and prepare you for the eter- nal home.” Gunatitanand Swami waits in the rain past midnight for Maharaj’s darshan During his discourses Swami also emphasized the importance of spiritual association with the HIS SPIRITUAL DISCOURSES holy sadhus (satsang) as a panacea to life’s grave In 1827, Bhagwan Swaminarayan appoint- problems. Most actions in daily life are not ed Gunatitanand Swami as the head of the merely a response to physical objects outside us Swaminarayan Mandir in Junagadh. Three years but also a result of our desires that operate from later, when Bhagwan Swaminarayan passed away, within. Spiritual association with sadhus (satsang) Gunatitanand Swami succeeded him and took make us aware of this and reinforce our spirit to Shriji Maharaj’s mission forward. His life and overcome them. Swami spoke on the significance discourses inspired thousands on the path of spir- of this aspect with a simple example. “Once dur- itual living. People flocked to see him and to hear ing a rat-infested year,” Swami began, “a barn his wonderful homilies. He used the layman’s was teeming with rats. The barn became a feast- language, interspersed with simple examples and ing ground for a snake. Each day he would feed thought-provoking answers. upon the rats. Many months passed in this way On one occasion, a devotee hosted and the snake grew in size and strength. But the Gunatitanand Swami during a visit to his vil- day arrived when there were no more rats left. lage. The next day, while Swami was addressing Finding no food, he became more ferocious, bit- an assembly, about two hundred people from a ing anyone who entered the barn. Now, tell neighbouring village thronged to the Swami discourses to the devotees in Junagadh assembly. They had come to the vil- lage on business, but having some time to spare, they decided to come and listen to Swami’s discourses. “If you want to go and settle in an- other town,” Swami, looking at the newcom- ers, asked, “would you just pack your belongings and go or would you first

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 15 Swami transforms Munja Suru me, would any of you enter the barn? Similarly, of water suffice to cool a giant red hot plate?” when one feeds one’s desires they fatten and grow Swami asked. in strength. But if they are not satisfied one’s crav- “No,” replied Tulsibhai. ing increases and like the hungry snake pounces “Then how can you hope to experience peace upon any available opportunity. If however, one when your heart has been boiling with worldly decapitates the snake, which is similar to sever- desires for seventy-two years? Tell me, will a few ing the base desires, one is freed from its tyranny. hours of listening to my spiritual discourses fill This, however, is only possible through disciplin- you with inner tranquillity? Come and stay at ing oneself under the guidance and blessings of Junagadh and I shall bless you with the peace and a holy guru.” happiness your son is experiencing.” Tulsibhai, a witness to the good effects of dis- A couple of weeks later Tulsibhai went to cipline always found his pious son happy and the Junagadh mandir. And in the course of time equipoised in all his activities. He believed it was Tulsibhai, who served in the mandir and listened all due to the blessings of his guru, Gunatitanand to the Swami’s discourses, was blessed with eter- Swami. When Swami came to his village he took nal bliss. Like him many prospered spiritually the opportunity of asking him to bless him just as from Swami’s divine company. he had blessed his son. Swami told him to attend his discourses. But Tulsibhai had little time for TRANSFORMING LIVES this; he would go to his business every morning Gunatitanand Swami’s entire life was cen- and return late in the evening. To sit and listen tered on reforming the lives of people he met to Swami’s discourses was something he was not and moved with. He clothed them with the fabric used to. On the last day of his stay Gunatitanand of moral and human values, thus transforming Swami called Tulsibhai. them into respectable citizens of society. “How old are you?” Swami asked gently. Munja Suru of Lilakha village near Gondal, “Seventy-two,” replied Tulsibhai. was notorious for his drunkenness and criminal “Tell me Tulsibhai, would a few bucketfuls habit of looting in broad daylight. The citizens of

16 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Lilakha village abhorred Munja Suru. But no one wealth. But he performed a miracle only when had the courage to stand up to him and throw the need arose and that, too, to reconcile people him out. This intense repulsion for him prevailed towards righteous and godly living. until the day Gunatitanand Swami arrived. A few minutes elapsed before Munja regained Munja, on hearing of Swami’s arrival, imme- consciousness, and like a frightened child that diately went to him. This was rather surprising! clings to its mother, Munja clasped Swami’s feet What were his intentions in going? Did he want and pleaded for help. Gunatitanand Swami placed to drive away Gunatitanand Swami and retain his hands on Munja’s back as a gesture of bless- the cloud of fear and notoriety hanging over the ings for a nobler and happier life. From that day village? Or did he go in earnest? onwards Munja became a changed person and When Munja Suru saw Gunatitanand Swami, the village enjoyed peace that had eluded it for he felt a wave of guilt overwhelm his conscience. many years. He looked down in shame and regret. Many more were transformed by this peren- “Munja,” Swami spoke with love, “why do nial stream, cleansing their hearts and nourish- you ruin yourself ? The more you pursue your ing them with the waters of holy living. Swami’s evil ways, the more sin and suffering you will immense sacrifice sprang from his love and spirit incur upon your body and spirit.” to do good. In spite of Swami’s gentle words Munja felt a In spite of physical hardship, he never disap- sharp pang. His uneasiness turned into a frown. pointed the devotees by refusing their invitations He did not like anyone crossing his path. His to visit their homes. On the very night he passed blood boiled, and then, he felt another sharp blow. away, at the age of eighty-two, he honoured the “You have lost the respect of your family, your request of a devotee and sanctified his home. friends and of the whole village. Now stop and On several occasions he was called to medi- mend your ways.” ate between quarrelling parties and re-establish He felt he would erupt like a volcano, but peace and friendship. He promoted respect for all that steam and fury evaporated into a clumsy all gods, thus resolving quarrels and enmity that laughter. were frequent during his times. “I am happy,” he said, “and not miserable at all. I believe your sermons will be better received HIS DISCIPLES by the villagers. Such talks are for those who are When his sadhu-disciples returned from their meek and gullible!” preaching tours, he would hurriedly step down He felt some satisfaction after saying some- from his seat, prostrate before them and embrace thing. But it was a poor attempt at brushing off them with love. And then he would enquire about Swami’s rebuke from his conscience. the places they had been to and the wellbeing of Swami tried again. But it was of no use. It was the devotees. If there were news of someone in like talking to a thick wall. So without further need of food and help he would make immedi- thought Swami shot a glance at him. Munja in- ate arrangements. “The devotees are a part of stantaneously fell into a and experienced our family,” he often said to the sadhus. “Their the tortures of hell. woes and afflictions are ours too. We should of- Many miracles have been catalogued in fer a helping hand and guide them as much as Gunatitanand Swami’s biography. His touch had possible.” revived a dead man, his blessings had saved many In return for Gunatitanand Swami’s care from fatal diseases and paupers were blessed with and sympathy the devotees became attached to

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 17 him. They rushed to him whenever he needed to weary travellers, Swami provided refuge to them, offering everything, and even themselves, wearied souls. if Swami so wished. Karsan Bambhaniya was Deha Charan was overcome with a void in life. one such disciple. Once, he came to the mandir An urge to seek something substantial and perma- and offered a box of jewellery to Gunatitanand nent sprang from his gloom. He no longer wished Swami. Knowing what was in it Swami said he to cling to worldly living and so he left his home had no need of it. “But, please Swami, it’s not in Rajasthan to search for a true guru. His sojourn much,” entreated Karsan. eventually brought him to Mt. Girnar, but even That year the monsoons had failed and so there his search brought him no peace. When the harvest was very poor. Food had become he climbed down and reached the foot of the scarce and thousands were affected by severe mountain, he saw a man steadfast in meditation. famine. Karsan Bambhaniya was worried about A ray of hope gleamed for him. He went upto Gunatitanand Swami and his sadhus. He had the young man and enquired about his guru. The come to offer whatever riches he possessed to young man talked about the glory and greatness Swami. To him Swami and his sadhus were more of Gunatitanand Swami. Deha Charan felt at ease. precious than his ownself. He instinctively felt his pilgrimage would shortly “We have no problems. Our granaries are well come to a fruitful end. He rushed to the Junagadh stocked. Please take back your box and look after Swaminarayan Mandir and his first feeling on see- your family,” Swami refused him a second time. ing Gunatitanand Swami was of immense inner A tear coursed down the weather-beaten cheek peace. The impact was so penetrating that Deha of Karsan, only to be followed by another and Charan renounced the mundane life and accepted another. initiation into the sadhu-fold. “Won’t you accept a gift from me?” choked Even the Nawab of Junagadh, a Muslim, Karsan. “The sadhus will go hungry and starve.” experienced a deep solace in the presence of And so saying he broke down. To pacify him Gunatitanand Swami. Whenever he found time, Swami accepted the box from his hands. Lovingly he unfailingly sought Swami’s company. Besides, wiping the tears off Karsan’s cheeks Gunatitanand people of different faiths came to listen to Swami told him to go back home and take care Swami’s discourses and seek counsel because he of his family. loved everyone and respected all religions. People Karsan had given the precious heirlooms of flocked to him because they were impressed by the Bambhaniya family. Swami kept the box and his humility and asceticism. returned it, unused, to Karsan the following year. Till the age of 82, Gunatitanand Swami With 300 sadhus under his care Gunatitanand served and inspired countless people, liberat- Swami shaped their lives into models of selfless- ing them of their base nature. He immortalized ness and a deep sense of sacrifice for God and them with the nectar of peace, fraternity, mo- his people. Through his personal attention and rality and exuberant love for God. On several encouragement he produced astute scholars out occasions, before he passed away, he had pointed of them. And above all he raised them to the level to Bhagatji Maharaj as his spiritual successor. of God-consciousness and realization. Bhagatji was the greatest gift that Gunatitanand Gunatitanand Swami’s life was also an elo- Swami bestowed to the Satsang Fellowship. In quent symbol of service. Like the mighty banyan the years that followed the devotees felt that the trees that stand unaffected, braving the scorching spirit of Gunatitanand Swami was alive in the summers and providing their comforting shade form of Bhagatji Maharaj. u

18 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 GURU PARAMPARA: Translation by Sadhu Mangalnidhidas The Transforming Company of Gunatitanand Swami

FROM A DACOIT TO A DEVOTEE In the village of Mansa in the region of Babariyavad, there lived a Kathi Darbar named Mamaiya Varu. He had two sons, Sidi Varu and Valera Varu. Valera’s half-brother Sidi had usurped Valera’s share of their ancestral land, leaving Valera landless and devoid of a liveli- hood. Out of frustration, Valera took to a life of banditry. He began raiding surrounding villages, steal- ing livestock and exacting savage retribution upon anyone who dared to cross him. He would attack random farmers plowing their fields and kill them in cold blood. Terrified by his senseless Gunatitanand Swami inspired transformation violence, people began to abandon these villages in the lives of countless people of varying for safer havens. Valera perpetrated this violence backgrounds. His life and teachings were to intimidate his half-brother into returning his such that the illiterate, the wayward and rightful share of their father’s property. But Sidi the devout advanced in their spiritual quest, Varu was also ruthless and not one to be eas- ily intimidated. no matter what their starting point. The One day, Swamishri was traveling in the following accounts of Valeru Varu, Acharya Nagher region when his party got lost. They were Raghuvirji Maharaj, the Nagar devotee of making their way through the wilderness when Junagadh and Dajibhai Darbar of Kamrod eight armed bandits blocked their path. Many in demonstrate the tremendous impact Swamishri’s retinue began to tremble at the sight Gunatitanand Swami had in their lives and of these cold-blooded killers. Swamishri reassured how he customized his efforts to advance each them, “What are you afraid of? What do we have of them spiritually. that they can possibly steal?” The text is reproduced from ‘Aksharbrahman But Swamishri’s group was not afraid of theft, but rather death, which seemed to be staring them Gunatitanand Swami: Life and Work’, which in the face. is a complete translation into English by One of the bandits pointed his rifle at the Mangalnidhi Swami of the two-part Gujarati group and barked, “Hey you! Maharajs! Let’s go! jivancharitra written by Harshadbhai T. This way. Valera Varu is waiting for you.” Dave. The translation has been published by At the mention of Valera’s name, everyone ex- Swaminarayan Aksharpith and is available cept for Swamishri felt their legs go weak. Valera at BAPS Bookstalls worldwide. Varu was infamous throughout Babariyavad for

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 19 Valera Varu’s life is transformed from a bandit to a devotee his senseless violence. The bullets of his gun had As if Swamishri’s presence had cast a spell on pierced the hearts of countless innocent souls him, Valera folded his hands and humbly asked, and the stroke of his sword had severed count- “Maharaj, which band of wandering sadhus are less heads from their bodies. The group could you a part of?” almost feel their life force draining away. How Swamishri replied, “We are not a band of could they possibly escape from this fiend? wandering sadhus, but rather followers of Swamishri told everyone, “Don’t worry, let’s Swaminarayan Bhagwan. We worship God and go with them. Maharaj is with us, so what is there inspire others to do the same. We have a mandir to fear?” in Junagadh and we were on our way to Una The party moved forward with the armed when we got lost and your men brought us here.” bandits in front and Swamishri calmly following The genuine care in Swamishri’s face, the love them, a mala in his hand and the Swaminarayan evident in his words and the compassion in his mantra on his lips. Behind Swamishri walked all gaze all combined to bring a transformative effect of the sadhus and devotees. on Valera’s heart. The cruel thoughts of slaugh- From his jungle hideout, Valera Varu saw the tering these sadhus that he had been harboring small party being brought in from afar. He raised just moments before suddenly vanished and were the barrel of his rifle and looked down the sights replaced with feelings of reverence and gratitude. to take aim. As the group moved closer, he was He told Swamishri, “Maharaj, we are privileged able to make out the figure of the saffron-robed by your holy presence. Today, I think my destiny Swamishri approaching. Stricken by a feeling he has taken a turn for the better.” couldn’t understand, he slowly lowered his gun Valera turned to his men and barked, “What and watched, transfixed, as Swamishri walked are you doing just standing there? Give these sad- straight towards him, gently put his hand on his hus some rice, sugar and pots of milk so they can shoulder and said, “You seem to be Valera Varu.” prepare a meal.”

20 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Then, he told Swamishri, “Maharaj, please small piece of rope. Swamishri tied seven knots prepare some dudhpak. We have no shortage of in the rope and told the Darbar, “Every morning, provisions. If you all bless us by eating our food, when the sun rises, untie one knot in this rope. I feel that fortune will surely smile upon us.” Once all of these knots are untied, you will get Detecting a dormant kindness in his heart your land back.” that belied his cruel occupation, Swamishri gen- Valera was overjoyed. Today, he had the dou- tly asked, “Darbar, why have you taken to a life ble blessing of being liberated from the sins of his of banditry?” violence and attaining Swamishri’s grace. Valera explained, “Maharaj, my half-brother With the trust of an innocent child, he asked usurped my share of the family property, and he Swamishri, “Should I start untying the knots from won’t return it despite all my efforts to negoti- today or tomorrow?” ate a peaceful settlement. Finally, being left with Swamishri laughed, took the rope from his no alternative, I have taken up this way of life.” hand, and untied one knot. Then he said, “Now, Swamishri countered, “Because you have a untie the next knot tomorrow morning.” disagreement with your brother, you are harass- Soon, the sadhus had prepared a meal, and ing innocent civilians? What kind of justice is they called Swamishri to eat. Swamishri had the this? Will slaughtering these innocent animals and Darbar and his men also sit down to eat. Since people bring your property back?” Swamishri did not eat dudhpak, he had a rotlo. Valera’s evil deeds flashed before his eyes. He But he smiled at everyone in his mandal and said, recalled the scene of an innocent youth, fresh from “Although you were all afraid, because Maharaj his marriage ceremony, who he had shot dead de- was with us, didn’t things turn out okay? We even spite the anguished, tearful pleading of his newly got dudhpak!” married bride. Countless such horrific deeds had After everyone finished their meal, Swamishri failed to stir any feeling in his stony heart, while prepared to leave. Valera sent his men to show today, Swamishri’s every word struck him with the Swamishri the way, and he also came part of the force of a body blow. Tears of repentance began way to see Swamishri off. As they parted ways, he to flow down his cheeks. He folded his hands asked Swamishri, “After I get my property back, and said, “Mother, Father! I don’t deny that I’ve where can I come to meet you?” committed countless terrible sins. But at the same Swamishri said, “Come to the Swaminarayan time, I don’t think I can give up this way of life Mandir in Junagadh.” unless my rightful property is returned to me.” Just as Swamishri had said, in seven days, Swamishri blessed him, “Darbar, your prop- Valera’s half-brother, Sidi Varu, sent a man to erty will be returned to you in seven days. Your Valera with a peace offering. The man greeted brother will send you a peace settlement and eve- Valera with honor and took him to Mansa. Sidi rything will turn out alright.” not only returned Valera’s land, but also gave him With Swamishri’s blessing, Valera felt a well- ` 7,000 in reparations. Valera thought to himself, spring of joy burst forth from his heart. After a “It is only by Swamishri’s blessings that I have few moments of silence, he asked, “Maharaj, how attained this great fortune.” will I know that seven days have passed?” He told his companions, “Let’s go right now Today, Swamishri had decided to shower his to Junagadh.” grace on this illiterate Darbar who had never He filled a bag with ` 2,000, and together learned to count, so he replied, “Bring me a rope.” with his men, he went to Junagadh and found Swamishri was immediately presented with a the mandir.

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 21 When Valera Varu entered the mandir, water from the rest of the village. They would not Swamishri was leaning against a pillar in the even let his livestock drink water from the public assembly hall delivering discourses. When troughs in the village. Valera Varu was dismayed Swamishri saw him approaching, he told the as- by this new difficulty and he decided to once sembled sadhus, “The Darbar who had fed us again seek Swamishri’s blessings. He returned to dudhpak has come.” Junagadh, explained his difficulty to Swamishri, Then, Swamishri himself rose and wel- and prayed, “Merciful Swami! Please visit Mansa comed the Darbar. He asked a parshad to see to so that my fortune improves.” their horses. Swamishri immediately agreed and came to Valera emptied his bag of rupees in front of Mansa with Valera Varu. As Swamishri was tour- Swamishri and humbly said, “In my mind, I had ing Valera’s land, he stopped at one spot, and pledged to donate these rupees if I got my prop- said, “If you dig twenty to thirty feet down on this erty back. By your blessings, my property was spot, you will get an abundant supply of water. So, returned to me today.” dig a well here, and on one side of it, build your Swamishri was pleased with his devotion. He residence, and on the other side, build a mandir.” kept Valera and his companions in the mandir Valera was overjoyed by Swamishri’s bless- for four days and attended to their needs while ings. He once again folded his hands and said, delivering many discourses to them. As they “Swamishri, we also have a shortage of water on were leaving, Valera did dandvats to Swamishri, the other side of my property.” grasped his hand and said “Swami, please show Swamishri gazed out upon the boundaries of me your abode.” his land and said, “There is a great store of water Swamishri pointed out to him the various throughout your property. So, wherever you dig, buildings on the mandir campus, but Valera was you’ll find plenty of water after just twenty to not satisfied. He said, “Swami, I want to see the thirty feet.” abode from which you have come.” Valera felt an immense sense of gratitude Swamishri was pleased by his spiritual discern- for all that Swamishri was doing to nurture his ment. He placed his hand on Valera’s head, and satsang. He asked Swamishri, “The Kathis of instantly, Valera attained samadhi. He saw Shriji Babariyavad do not typically become . Maharaj in Akshardham being served by count- What merit must I have accumulated in the past less muktas, as well as the divine, radiant form that I have been blessed with Satsang?” of Swamishri himself. When Valera awoke from Swamishri laughed and said, “Once, samadhi, he had tears of joy in his eyes. Swamishri Krupanand Swami and twelve other sadhus had told him, “Valera, that is my abode. After you cast come to Mota Mansa. At that time, Masari Koli off this body, I want to keep you there with us.” of Mansa was a . He had insisted, ‘I won’t From this incident, Valera developed a strong let you leave without eating.’ conviction that Swamishri was Shriji Maharaj’s “So, according to our custom, we had gone divine abode, Akshardham. through the village begging for alms. Seeing the Although Valera had technically received his sadhus begging for food in his village, your father share of the inheritance, he was given rocky, arid Mamaiya Varu stopped us and gave us both provi- land that was hard to farm. Water could be ob- sions and utensils to cook our meal. Due to that tained only after digging sixty or seventy-five feet, merit, you have attained Satsang.” and even then it was in short supply. Moreover, Finally, Swamishri blessed the Darbar, “You the other villagers prohibited him from taking will experience great happiness.”

22 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Then, Swamishri left Mansa and re- eyes in deep thought. After some time, Swamishri turned to Junagadh. uttered, “The 500 paramhansas are clutching my Due to Swamishri’s blessings, throat and warning me, ‘Don’t eat it! It is poi- Valera Varu’s village, Nanu Mansa, son! It is poison! It is poison!’” soon prospered. Due to the abun- Raghuvirji Maharaj folded his hands and dance of groundwater, the farmers said, “Swami, if you behave like this, what reaped excellent harvests. Before will become of me? My base instincts have long, Nanu Mansa began to pro- not been eradicated.”1 duce more agricultural revenue Swamishri replied, than Mota Mansa. “Entrust the post of acharya i i i to Bhagvatprasadji Maharaj and IF I DON’T MAKE YOU come to Junagadh as a pilgrim and GUNATIT, THEN I AM I will eradicate all of your complexes. NOT GUNATIT And if I don’t eradicate all of your com- After the festival, Swamishri Acharya Raghuvirji Maharaj plexes and make you Gunatit, then I traveled to Anand with Raghuvirji Maharaj am not Gunatit.” and set up camp in a mango grove. Every day, Raghuvirji Maharaj said, “Alright, Swami! If Swamishri would sit under a mango tree and de- I don’t come to Junagadh as a pilgrim, then I am liver extraordinary discourses, which Raghuvirji not Raghuvirji.” Maharaj would always attend. Swamishri spoke This incident demonstrated the extent of extensively about ekantik dharma and Shriji Acharya Raghuvirji Maharaj’s reverence for Maharaj as Purushottam Narayan. Many people Gunatitanand Swami. Whenever Raghuvirji from the town, including Jibhai Shelat, came to Maharaj was with Swamishri, he would daily have listen to Swamishri’s talks. his attendant prepare a separate dish of food and While the discourses were extraordinary, send it to Swamishri. If no attendant was present, Raghuvirji Maharaj was experiencing an intense then before he ate his meal, he would fill a dish inner struggle. Soon after the festival in Vartal, for Swamishri, put it on the side, and only then his wife had passed away. He did not want to would he eat. remarry, and he knew that as long as sexual de- i i i sire remained in his heart, he would be unable to ERADICATING A NAGAR DEVOTEE’S enjoy the true bliss of Swamishri’s company or CRAVINGS FOR TASTY FOOD the bliss of Shriji Maharaj’s divine form. While Swamishri’s discourses had removed After a few days in Anand, Swamishri was pre- the darkness of ignorance from countless hearts, paring to leave when Raghuvirji Maharaj said, even his mere darshan and casual actions were “Swami, please sit in my carriage.” enough to dissolve the obstinate perversities of Swamishri assented to his request and sat in one’s ingrained nature. his carriage. In Junagadh, one devotee of the Nagar com- Then, Raghuvirji Maharaj took some penda munity would come to the mandir every day, do from a small box and offered one to Swamishri. darshan of Thakorji and Swamishri and then go Swamishri took one in his hand and closed his home. Never would he sit in the assembly and 1. Swamishri’s utterance indicates his detachment from the pleasures of the senses. Seeing this as a spiritual ideal, Ra- ghuvirji Maharaj expressed his dismay that he was unable to behave in such an elevated manner due to the desires and complexes lodged within his heart. These complexes include superiority complex, inferiority complex, as well as other base natures such as lust, greed, etc.

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 23 Swami liberates a Nagar of Junagadh from his cravings for tasty food listen to any spiritual discourses. If Swamishri darshan. Then, he went to the assembly hall to happened to be delivering discourses when he have darshan of Swamishri. After doing darshan came, the devotee would do darshan from afar of Swamishri from afar, he was just thinking of and leave, but he would not allow a single word going home when Swamishri called him near and of Swamishri’s divine speech to reach his ears. asked him to sit in the discourse. The devotee sat This Nagar devotee was a slave to his palate, in the assembly reluctantly, but before long, he constantly desiring the finest delicacies to fulfill was completely enthralled by Swamishri’s capti- his intense cravings. If the food he was served did vating speech. not match his exacting expectations, he would When the discourse finished, the sadhus and fly into a rage and throw the served dish, casting devotees went for lunch. The Nagar devotee a terrible shadow on the peace in his home. His thought, “What rich foods must the power- mother and wife had become so traumatized by ful mahant of such a large mandir be enjoying? his outbursts that every time he sat down to eat, They must be serving everyone a delicious feast their hearts would quake with fear. On the rare of tender sweets and savory fried items. And since occasions when he finished his meal silently, judg- Swamishri is the mahant of the mandir, he must ing it to have been prepared perfectly, his mother be enjoying the very best items.” and wife would breathe a grateful sigh of relief. With this thought, he followed Swamishri to But those occasions were so few and far between the sadhus’ dining hall and looked in from the out- that they had learned to brace themselves for his side to see the sadhus serving a crumbly item into fury at every mealtime. Swamishri’s bowl. The Nagar devotee surmised, One day, out of desperation, his mother con- “It looks like they have served him churmu, the veyed her plight to Swamishri through a male raw material of laddus. Next, they will slather it devotee and asked for his help. Swamishri smiled with ghee and then serve sugar on top!” and told the male devotee, “Don’t worry, we will The Nagar devotee began salivating at this resolve the problem today.” thought when he saw a white liquid being poured That morning, according to his routine, the into Swamishri’s bowl. He concluded, “Swamishri Nagar devotee came to the mandir for Thakorji’s seems to have taken dudhpak with his churmu.

24 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 That is a novel combination!” TRANSFORMATION OF DAJIBHAI DARBAR Discerning the devotee’s thought, Swamishri OF KAMROD told the bhandari sadhu, “Please bring some salt Satsangis would sometimes stay in the mandir and crushed cumin.” as Swamishri’s guests, but non-satsangis would After Swamishri added salt and crushed cumin do so more often. It is Shriji Maharaj’s command to his bowl, he poured some water in it. The that those who come to the mandir seeking ac- Nagar devotee realized that, “Swamishri isn’t commodations, bedding and food should be pro- having dudhpak or even milk; he must be having vided according to the mandir’s capability. Thus, buttermilk.” Swamishri offered hospitality to all. Swamishri As his curiosity got the better of him, the would treat everyone – satsangis and non-satsan- devotee entered the sadhus’ dining hall, did gis with the same respect and affection. Whoever dandvats to Swamishri and sat down near him. experienced Swamishri’s hospitality, could not Then he respectfully asked, “Swamishri, what are remain long without becoming a satsangi. you eating?” Dajibhai, the Darbar of the village of Kamrod Swamishri replied, “I am having crumbled in the Valak region, had come to Junagadh for rotlo and buttermilk.” some government work. He came to Swamishri The Nagar devotee was amazed. Swamishri seeking accommodations in the mandir, and was the mahant of such a large mandir and yet Swamishri gave him a room on the hookah loft. he was eating such simple fare as crumbled rotlo Swamishri had kept the upper storey of one and buttermilk! The Nagar devotee was over- building reserved as a designated hookah-smok- whelmed. In the past, he had seen Swamishri dis- ing area. He would give non-satsangi Darbars and tributing piles of delicacies to sadhus and devo- Garasiyas who were addicted to tobacco, opium tees; and yet, he himself consumed just crumbled or other substances, rooms here so they could rotlo and buttermilk. The Nagar devotee’s heart stay and smoke without being self-conscious of was transformed by Swamishri’s simplicity and others’ judgment. Moreover, the hookah loft was absolute indifference to tasty foods. separate from the rest of the mandir so that sat- The Nagar devotee walked home slowly, lost sangis would not be troubled by their bad hab- in thoughts of Swamishri’s greatness. His moth- its. Swamishri understood that sermons alone er and wife awaited his arrival with foreboding. wouldn’t convince these Darbars to give up their It was well past his normal mealtime and they addictions, but by interacting with satsangis and would have to reheat his food. Thus, they were observing their lifestyle, they would naturally be frightened at his reaction to the subtle change in inspired to forsake their bad habits. the food’s flavor because it was reheated. Swamishri gave Dajibhai’s horse grass and With bated breath, they served the food in feed. He also had a cot put into the Darbar’s his dish. But the Nagar devotee ate everything room and invited both the Darbar and his serv- that was served to him thinking only about ant to dinner. Based on Swamishri’s welcoming Swamishri’s indifference to tasty foods. He did demeanour and attention to all the details of his not say a single word. That day marked a turning comfort, the Darbar decided that Swamishri’s point in his life. His violent cravings for tasty food hospitality was as good as people said it was. had been uprooted. His mother and wife finally The next morning, when Swamishri was de- found peace in their home. livering discourses in the assembly, Dajibhai came i i i and sat before him. Swamishri said, “Darbar, have you accepted anyone as a guru?”

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 25 Swami purifies Dajibhai Darbar of Kamrod after he confesses of his sins and base instincts Dajibhai replied, “I am looking for a guru, but the entire assembly, Swamishri said, “Observe the as of yet I have not found one. On one occasion, four vows through your own efforts, and I will I had gone to make someone my guru, but in re- assist you in observing the vow of non-lust.” turn for accepting me as a disciple he demanded Swamishri offered vartman to the Darbar, tied two bottles of liquor and two goats. I realized a kanthi around his neck and gave him a puja. that he was no better than me, so how could he Then, Swamishri told him to do five malas while possibly help me?” keeping his gaze focused on him. The Darbar did Swamishri laughed and said, “Darbar, this five malas while looking directly at Swamishri. guru will not ask for such things.” Swamishri looked into Dajibhai’s eyes and de- Then, Swamishri said, “Darbar! I inspire peo- stroyed the lust in his heart. Through Swamishri’s ple to do bhajan of Swaminarayan and follow the grace, the Darbar experienced tranquility in his five vows of no alcohol, no meat, no thievery, no heart, and all thoughts of lust subsided. The adultery and purity of conduct.” Darbar felt fulfilled. Then, taking Swamishri’s As the Darbar did darshan of Swamishri permission, he returned to his room. and heard his words, he felt peace pervade his The next day, after completing his govern- heart. His mind became still. He felt drawn to ment work, Dajibhai took Swamishri’s leave Swamishri. He folded his hands and said, “Swami, and returned home. By Swamishri’s grace, his from today, I give you my word that I will no lust and other desires had disappeared, and he longer drink alcohol or eat meat. I don’t steal, as felt a profound serenity in his heart. Freed of it is. Moreover, I will observe purity of conduct.” inner obstacles, he began to do constant bhajan The Darbar felt that since this sadhu is very of Swaminarayan. Every day he would eat two great, he should openly confess to his misdeeds pounds of puris along with 2½ liters of whole milk before him. Thus, he continued, “Swami, in my sweetened with two pounds of sakar. Despite his youth, I had taken a lot of copper ash and eaten prodigious appetite, not a single lustful thought many sparrow tongues, thus I will not be able to ever crossed his mind. By openly confessing to follow the vow of no adultery.”2 Swamishri, the Darbar had become free of that Pleased that the Darbar had told the truth before flaw. u 2. Ash containing copper and sparrow tongues are considered aphrodisiacs.

26 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 GURU PARAMPARA: Sadhu Amrutvijaydas jnan, vairagya and bhakti. His discourses carried all the more impact since everything he preached was exemplified in his life and so everyone ap- preciated the genuineness of his talks. Such was the impact of Gunatitanand Swami’s talks that Shuk Muni declared in an assembly at Surat, “The same inspiration that used to be at- tained by Shriji Maharaj’s discourses can be attained today from the talks of Gunatitanand Swami.” Thus, even scholarly and senior paramhan- sas, who had witnessed the development of the Sampradaya since the time of Shriji Maharaj, praised Gunatitanand Swami’s candid and enlight- ening discourses. Whenever Nityanand Swami visited Junagadh, he commented, “Swami’s talks are very spirited. I have heard many leading schol- ars but have never heard such lucid explanations of Maharaj’s true form, dharma, jnan, vairagya and bhakti. He is certainly the manifest form of Inspirer of Spiritual Gunatit – just as Maharaj had described.” Gunatitanand Swami’s relentless preach- Knowledge ing was initiated after an assembly in Gadhada. Gunatitanand Swami asked Shriji Maharaj, “Which of these four endeavours is the best – to f you want to learn worldly wisdom engage in continuous meditation, to behave as then go to Puja Sheth (of Sundariyana). atmarup, to serve the ill or to deliver discourses?” “IBut if you want to attain both worldly Maharaj advised, “The first three endeavours wisdom and moksha, then go to Gunatitanand are for a person’s own liberation. However, en- Swami in Junagadh.” This was the final advice gaging in spiritual discourses liberates both the given by to Shivlal Sheth, speaker and listener.” Vaghji Amin, Manji Thakkar, Harikrishna Bhatt, With this in mind, when Gunatitanand Swami Jeebhai Shelat, Jaso Gor and other leading disci- was appointed mahant of Junagadh Mandir, he ples before he passed away to Akshardham. arranged a schedule of 24-hour non-stop dis- Gunatitanand Swami was respected in this way courses. Whenever he was in Junagadh, he too, throughout the Swaminarayan Sampradaya for his despite his administrative and other duties, spent wise, inspiring and forthright talks. He was recog- much time daily discoursing. nized by all as an excellent orator who presented Junagadh was ruled by a Muslim nawab, who his message with anecdotes and perfect clarity. was overawed by Gunatitanand Swami’s saintliness. His talks boldly described the glory of Bhagwan As a result, he helped Gunatitanand Swami in many Swaminarayan as supreme God, the philosophy ways and often listened to Swami’s discourses. of Akshar and Purushottam as revealed in the To reach out to the people, Gunatitanand Swami by Bhagwan Swaminarayan, and used Junagadh as his hub and toured hundreds of the necessity of perfecting the virtues of dharma, surrounding villages. In this way he engraved the

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 27 teachings of Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the hearts they were working and asked Jaga Bhakta, “You of thousands of devotees to such an extent that are preparing stones, but do you remember the they were willing to sacrifice everything for him. murti of God?” Gunatitanand Swami did not confine his “No, Swami,” he replied. spiritual travels and teachings to just the Sorath “That is not right. Worship while you work,” region, but every year he visited Vartal for the an- commented Swami. nual spiritual camps. Even on route, to and from “I am not able to do that,” admitted Jaga Vartal, he spent time in the villages preaching Bhakta. to the devotees, individually or in small groups. So Swami explained, “At first you did not Through his discourses Gunatitanand Swami know how to prepare these stones. But through ensured that his devotees were not distracted practice you have learnt. Similarly, if you practice from their spiritual goal. Whenever necessary remembering God while you work, you will be he would draw attention to possible hindrances able to master it.” and alert the devotees so that they did not deviate Gunatitanand Swami often said that his talks from their focus. were like powerful arrows and therefore they Shivlal Sheth was a wealthy and respected were capable of penetrating into the hearts of businessman in Botad whose life was deeply spir- even the most wicked of people. itual. He frequently visited Junagadh to stay in the Notorious bandits, Munja Suru of Lilakha and company of Gunatitanand Swami and listen to his Valera Varu of Babariyawad, were transformed by discourses. During one such stay, after the morn- their association with Gunatitanand Swami and ing discourses, Shivlal Sheth visited the market they ceased to be a menace to society. and traded some gold, earning a handsome ` 150 Many devotees, through Swami’s guidance, profit. With this he sponsored a meal at the mandir. attained great spiritual heights and conquered However, when he reported this to Gunatitanand troublesome base natures, such as, ego, anger, Swami, the latter questioned, “Do you ever think jealousy, lust, etc. of trading millions of tonnes of husk.” Shivlal Even Acharya Raghuvirji Maharaj realized the Sheth replied, “No, Swami.” Then Swami said, “To true greatness of Gunatitanand Swami. Shedding the holy sadhu, other than the murti of Maharaj, the ego of his status, the acharya stayed with everything upto Prakruti Purush is dirt, there is no Gunatitanand Swami at Junagadh and by listening value in it. So by forsaking the darshan and talks to his discourses attained the state of brahmarup. of the sadhu, what have you earned?” Gunatitanand Swami was extremely particular Once in Junagadh, Abhaysinh, the Darbar of in ensuring that all who came to Junagadh left Lodhika, was seated in meditation. Gunatitanand with greater spiritual awareness. Swami perceived his thoughts and commented, Once Kashidas had gone to Junagadh. He had “Bapu! You won’t be able to accomplish the work originally intended to stay one month, but stayed in Lodhika sitting here. Lodhika is 75 km from for two. Before he left, Gunatitanand Swami gave here and when you go there the work can be him the essence of the understanding he should done. So while seated here what is it that distracts take with him. Swami said, “There are four talks you from Maharaj?” which are a lifeline for the jiva. First, the supreme While the work for the new dharmashala in upasana of Shriji Maharaj; second, agna; third, Junagadh was in progress, Jaga Bhakta and others to attach one’s jiva with the ekantik Sadhu; and were preparing the stones to be used in the con- fourth, to maintain friendship with the devoted.” struction. Gunatitanand Swami came to where Such clear-cut guidance was a hallmark of

28 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Gunatitanand Swami’s way of inspiring and en- but Gunatitanand Swami blessed him and arranged lightening his devotees. for all the necessary information to write the Hari- Through his discourses, Gunatitanand Swami lila-kalpataru scripture. brought peace to many in stressful situations. Gunatitanand Swami never missed an oppor- Gunatitanand Swami was staying in Gondal tunity to deliver the spiritual message for which mandir. The Darbar of Gondal was in a state of he had taken birth. Tirelessly, he would talk to deep depression and grief due to the passing away anyone and everyone. Some questioned this ap- of his young baby son. Gunatitanand Swami was proach, suggesting that he should be selective and invited to the palace. There, Swami spoke to the only preach to those who are suitable. To this Darbar in such a clear and caring manner that the Swami replied, “Those who listen and benefit are Darbar felt real peace and all his grief dissolved. suitable and those who do not are unsuitable.” Even to the experienced and senior paramhan- Gunatitanand Swami’s fluent and insightful sas, Gunatitanand Swami’s talks often shed light discourses appealed to all – rich or poor, young on matters which they had not fully understood. or old, sadhu or householder. There was always Once, in Vartal, Gunatitanand Swami discoursed something of interest and value to listeners at all on Vachanamrut Gadhada II 9 and explained the stages of spiritual development. glory of Shriji Maharaj as supreme God. Hearing Gunatitanand Swami’s talks were very direct. this explanation, Shuk Muni revealed, “Swami! He elaborated upon many of his principles by Maharaj addressed this Vachanamrut to me and so the use of appropriate anecdotes and examples I am the one who wrote it. But only today have I based on his experiences and observation of the understood its true meaning.” human psyche. Thus, he was able to convey even Gunatitanand Swami arrived in Aniyali where the most complicated doctrines to even simple- Bhai Atmanand Swami was residing. He was 116 minded, illiterate villagers. years old and wondered why Maharaj had not The knowledge they gained did not just re- yet taken him to Akshardham. Since, ill health main as theoretical concepts, but they applied the prevented him from travelling to Junagadh, principles in their daily lives and experienced the Atmanand Swami requested Gunatitanand Swami true bliss of God. to talk. Gunatitanand Swami explained the true Gunatitanand Swami left a legacy that has form and supreme glory of Shriji Maharaj and been preserved up to this day. Some of his talks with this removed the misconceptions Atmanand were compiled by his sadhus and devotees into the Swami had in his mind. He now realized that Shriji Swamini Vato scripture. His talks are so universal Maharaj was supreme God. A short while later, that even today, whichever country one lives in or Atmanand Swami passed away to Akshardham. whatever one’s background and circumstances, they Gunatitanand Swami not only engaged relent- serve as a guiding light to all genuine spiritual seek- lessly in talks, but he also inspired the writing ers. Many have experienced that by reading even of scriptures which described Shriji Maharaj’s a page of the Swamini Vato, there is always some supreme form. guidance that provides relief and mental calmness Once, in the presence of Acharya Raghuvirji from the problems and frustrations of daily life. Maharaj, Gunatitanand Swami said that a scripture The reason they have such a powerful effect describing the divine life and glory of Shriji Maharaj is because Gunatitanand Swami spoke with a should be written. Achintyanand Brahmachari was genuine desire to uplift everyone spiritually. So, selected for the task. Achintyanand Brahmachari by using his teachings with a pure heart one can confessed that the task was beyond his capacity, attain God and experience true, divine bliss. u

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 29 MAHANT SWAMI MAHARAJ UK & USA VICHARAN 15 June to 30 July 2017

MAHANT SWAMI MAHARAJ IN LONDON During the flight, Swamishri blessed On 15 June 2017, Mahant Swami Maharaj de- Cabin Service Director Simon Lander and his parted from New Delhi for his four-month satsang cabin crew. Sadhus and devotees travelling with vicharan to UK, Europe, America and Canada. Swamishri were delighted to have Swamishri’s darshan from close up. LONDON: 15–21 JUNE The flight landed at Heathrow Airport at 2.55 15 June, New Delhi, London p.m. GMT (7.25 p.m. IST). After clearing the im- Swamishri travelled by British Airways flight migration process at Terminal 5, Swamishri flew 256 from New Delhi to London. Before the flight by helicopter from Heathrow to the grounds of took off at 10.45 a.m. (IST), Swamishri blessed The Swaminarayan School, opposite the BAPS the main pilot, Captain Minesh Patel – a staunch Mandir in Neasden. Here, resident sadhus of BAPS devotee who also flew Pramukh Swami London and hundreds of devotees joyfully wel- Maharaj on several occasions – and his co-pilots, comed Swamishri. Welcoming Mahant Swami Captain Jeremy Palmer and Senior First Officer Maharaj to the West, the sadhus first offered a Simon Lilly. garland to Shri Harikrishna Maharaj and then

30 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Swamishri being welcomed with Shri Harikrishna Maharaj in a horse-drawn carriage, London garlanded Swamishri. They also applied sandal- main mandir, where he showered Thakorji with wood paste to Swamishri’s forehead. Senior devo- flower petals. tees, Shri Vinubhai Bhatessa and Shri Maheshbhai After darshan, at 6.05 p.m., Swamishri arrived Patel, also garlanded Swamishri. Swamishri met to a devout and rapturous welcome in the packed all the sadhus individually. haveli assembly hall. Thereafter, Swamishri held Shri Harikrishna Pramukh Swami Maharaj had last visited Maharaj in his hands and sat in a traditional London in 2007, so this was the first time in 10 British open two-horse drawn carriage. Led by youths dressed as royal guards Swamishri’s car- riage was escorted in a procession to the school gate. Behind the carriage were the youths of Leicester’s Akshar Marching Band playing vari- ous tunes and youths beating traditional drums. Lining the route, youths waved large BAPS flags, 25 youths struck gongs and devotees from all BAPS centres throughout the UK and Europe devoutly hailed the jai naad and waved BAPS flags. The children of the school also welcomed Swamishri by cheering and waving flags. From the school gate, Swamishri sat in a golf cart, and as he entered the mandir children show- ered flower petals along his path and welcomed him with the peacock dance. From the haveli bal- cony, balaks in traditional costumes also show- ered flower petals. With Thakorji in his hands, Swamishri observed the colourful rangoli and then went first to offer abhishek to the murti of Swamishri arrives in the mandir with Shri Nilkanth Varni. Thereafter, he went to the Shri Harikrishna Maharaj

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 31 children, teenagers, youths and seniors. After mangala arti, Swamishri performed his daily puja in the haveli. Afterwards, he inaugu- rated the unique album of paintings on Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s life Bhagwan Swaminarayan: A Saga in Paintings. The theme of today’s shibir was ‘Satpurush: The Gunatit Legacy’. Representatives of all four Satsang wings welcomed Thakorji and Swamishri, after which Swamishri lit the traditional lamp (for brief report, see Swaminarayan Bliss, July–August 2017, p. 65). During the shibir, Swamishri was asked, “What Devotees absorbed in the first darshan of should we do so that our enthusiasm for satsang Swamishri in the haveli continues to increase?” Swamishri replied, “Think years that the devotees had been blessed with about what you have attained (prapti). Shriji the presence of the satpurush. Blessing the devo- Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj came on tees Swamishri said, “Seeing you all brings great this earth. They became like us. They are not easy delight. Our BAPS is a united family. We are all to attain, but they became easy for us. Pramukh one; that is the true joy. Shriji Maharaj says, ‘God Swami Maharaj fulfilled our wishes, whether we resides where there is unity, friendship, compas- were deserving or not. And the wishes he may sion and discipline.’ Another thing he says, ‘All not have fulfilled was for our good. Now what do devotees worshipping God are divine.’ Whoever we have to do? Live according to his wishes and learns, contemplates and beholds these ideas will commands, regardless of whether we experience become blissful and experience continuous joy. happiness or misery, honour or insult. Only do Travel the whole world, but there is no peace, what he wishes. For 95 years, he disregarded his except at the feet of God. Observing God’s com- body and till the last moments he endeavoured mands brings peace. Maharaj has said, ‘Those to please us. So, it is our duty to keep affection devotees who want to stay near to me must shed for him and believe him as divine. There is no the desire for the temporary worldly pleasures.’ need to look at others. Only look at Bapa. Offer Worldly pleasures and Maharaj are not compat- ekantik devotion.” ible. To keep God, one must let go of material During the game ‘Change’, Swamishri was desires. They are all temporary, so grasp the truth. asked, “Tell us an incident that will strengthen our Satsang is the truth – so keep hold of it. No mat- unity.” Swamishri described the occasion when ter what obstacles or adverse circumstances arise, was so pleased by the unity be- never leave satsang.” tween two non-satsangi men that he served them Then, Swamishri blessed the devotees who had pendas and performed dandvats to them. Then observed fasts as a prelude to his visit. Swamishri Swamishri said, “They were not devotees, but had dinner at 6.45 p.m. (11.15 p.m. IST) and re- Yogiji Maharaj admired their unity. He liked unity tired for the night at 7.32 p.m. (12 midnight IST). even outside Satsang, so why would he not like unity within Satsang? Living with unity means 17 June 2017: Satsang Shibir that there will never be any quarrels. In unity, A special one-day shibir was held for all one does not demand. Think what one has to

32 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Delegates present an activity during the Satsang Shibir do. If one has no expectations from others, then unity is sustained.” Finally, Swamishri was asked, “We are forgetful and will not be able to remember all this. So, give us one command that we should follow for life.” Swamishri replied, “Ghar Sabha. It will solve all problems.” Then Swamishri went to the concurrent shibir for balaks and balikas.

Here, he participated in the game ‘Yes or No’ Swamishri reveals Ghar Sabha as the solution to all problems in which he replied ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to the questions asked. The final question asked was, “If someone On stage, children, youths and seniors wel- asks us whether we have seen God, can we say comed Swamishri with some gifts. yes?” Swamishri instantly clenched his fist and After a welcome speech by Kothari Yogvivek declared, “Yes.” The children were delighted and Swami, Swamishri was honoured with garlands applauded joyfully. by the resident sadhus of London Mandir, the Next, Swamishri drew a plane symbolizing Deputy Mayor of London, Shri Raj Agrawal, and that everyone will be taken to Akshardham. On representatives of various organizations. the left wing he wrote ‘Agna’, and on the right Blessing the assembly, Swamishri said, he wrote ‘Upasana’. All the children pledged “Maharaj and Swami manifested on earth for that they would consolidate agna and upasana our benefit. That succession continues. Their in their lives. manifestation has halted our cycle of births and deaths. This is our last birth. Maharaj has granted Welcome Assembly moksha. If one does not malign in satsang, then In the evening, a grand welcome assembly was one attains Dham. Otherwise, there is a delay. We held. Swamishri entered with Thakorji from the have affection for God and his Sadhu. However, front of the assembly hall, led by youths danc- our ego and attachments prevail towards devotees ing to the tune of the bhajan ‘Ãvo padhãro re… and so questions arise. To control swabhavs, one Mahant Swãmi Mahãrãj amãrã ãnganiye…’ must understand each other’s glory. Serve with

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 33 Swamishri arrives at Atlanta mandir Swamishri engaged in darshan of Thakorji, Atlanta humility. Brahmavidya is when one sees everyone ATLANTA: 21 JUNE–7 JULY as divine. Yogi Bapa used to say, ‘Nirdosh buddhi 21 June 2017, London, Atlanta towards all is seva.’ This is an outstanding state- Swamishri flew from Heathrow Airport ment, but we do not practice it in our lives. in London to Atlanta. On arriving at Atlanta “Shriji Maharaj says, ‘Even if someone does not International Airport Swamishri was devoutly serve me, but if he praises the virtues of devotees garlanded by Yagnavallabh Swami and Shri then I believe that he is serving me.’ Such grace! Kanubhai Patel. God himself is giving us heaps of money, but we At 9.35 p.m., Swamishri reached the BAPS are refusing! Observe niyams and keep nishtha. Mandir where thousands of devotees were wait- Nishtha includes divyabhav, samp, suhradbhav, ing eagerly to welcome him. ekta, mahima, etc. This will please God and so With Thakorji in his hands, Swamishri walked moksha is guaranteed. Satsang teaches a simple along a raised platform with divas on both sides principle: if one does not take avgun, Akshardham towards the mandir. Devotees were seated on is attained. There is no benefit in negative talks. both sides, singing the bhajan ‘Vãlam vadhãmanã Keep your focus on Maharaj-Swami and Pramukh ho Swãmine harshe vadhãvie…’ to add to the de- Swami Maharaj. Then your task will be accom- vout night atmosphere. On the mandir podium, plished. Moksha will be attained.” the sadhus honoured Swamishri with garlands. Over 7,000 devotees had come to welcome Then Swamishri lit a divo to inaugurate his sat- Swamishri and have his darshan and blessings. sang vicharan in North America, greeted every- one by saying, “Jai Swaminarayan” and then went 18 June 2017: Asthi Visarjan to the main mandir for darshan. Dispersal of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s sa- cred ashes in the River Thames. (See report: 23 June 2017 Swaminarayan Bliss, July–August 2017, p. 62). A grand welcome assembly was held in the mandir assembly hall in the evening. Swamishri MAHANT SWAMI MAHARAJ IN was greeted by balaks and yuvaks playing the NORTH AMERICA band, showering flower petals and dancing to the Mahant Swami Maharaj’s first North America bhajan, ‘Swãgat karie re, guru charane namie re…’. satsang vicharan after becoming guru began Dignitaries and representatives of local or- from Atlanta. ganizations were present to welcome Swamishri. Among them were US Congressman Rob Woodall,

34 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 US Congressman Rob Woodall presents Swamishri with a Swamishri performs the re-consecration rituals of proclamation, Atlanta Shri Nilkanth Varni abhishek murti, Atlanta Lilburn City officials and others. nischay are firm, nothing will hinder our path to US Congressman Rob Woodall addressed the Akshardham.” gathering, “I’ve never seen a welcome like the one I just saw right here… Because of your leader- 24 June 2017: Re-Consecration of Nilkanth ship, and the way it is manifested through all the Varni Abhishek Murti and Rath Yatra Festival faces we see here, our community is richer today After puja, Swamishri performed the Vedic than we were ten years ago… I can tell you now re-consecration rituals of the Nilkanth Varni with conviction that the joy in these faces is truly abhishek murti. While the annakut was set up, found in the joy of others in our community, and Swamishri blessed the devotees, “Prayers that I’m grateful for that. Welcome Swami, welcome!” Nilkanth Varni Maharaj fulfills everyone’s wishes Blessing the assembly, Swamishri said, “All and that everyone’s welfare continues to improve. these guests have come and have been touched You all serve to please God; that is a great thing. from within. And why not? Since Maharaj and Our countless past births have passed in pleas- Swami are here. ing bodily relations. But in this birth, God has “We have attained Maharaj and Swami. That is been attained. He became like us to give great a great thing and we are fulfilled. Maharaj came joy and he continues to give bliss. Subtle doubts on this earth, became like us and gave much joy. remain, but if they are removed and Maharaj, We have all jumped the queue, benefitted and Swami, Bhagatji Maharaj, , experienced the joy. Now, we should not relin- Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj quish that joy; keep hold of it. For this, two things are understood as totally divine then the bliss of are required: agna and upasana. There is none Akshardham will be experienced here.” greater than God. Gunatitanand Swami is Mul Thereafter, Swamishri performed the pratish- Akshar and serves Maharaj. The Satpurush serves tha arti. them both. Maharaj said, ‘God will forever re- In the evening, the Rath Yatra festival was main manifest on earth.’ So, we must put in the celebrated. Swamishri performed the arti of Shri effort. We have never had such an opportunity. Harikrishna Maharaj and then Thakorji was After countless births we now have attained this seated in a beautifully decorated rath, which chance. To keep hold of what we have attained, Swamishri manoeuvred by remote control. agna and upasana are required. Due to Maharaj, On this occasion, Swamishri inaugurat- Swami and the Satpurush, we will be victorious. ed Expressions, Impressions and Feelings, a Upasana gives inner strength. If our niyams and book featuring 750 experiences of visitors to

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 35 During the Rath Yatra celebration, Swamishri operates arath with Shri Harikrishna Maharaj seated inside, Atlanta

the shibir were given a specially prepared book on the life of Mahant Swami Maharaj – the first of its kind. Swamishri blessed the six youths who had contributed to its production. In the main evening Yuva Din assembly, Swamishri was seated in a beautifully decorated hindolo. Youths honoured him with garlands and then Swamishri inaugurated a book highlighting the seva performed by karyakars. Atlanta mandir. Also, he inaugurated two new In the main programme, youths recounted the Swaminarayan Aksharpith e-books: Royal Path divine bliss Bhagwan Swaminarayan had given to of Brahmavidya: Swaminarayan Sadhana and the devotees of his time. One such occasion was Hinduism: Sacred Texts. the raas (stick dance) in Panchala. The youths Representatives of various organizations were presented a vibrant traditional dance and then also present in the celebration assembly. Swamishri individually played raas with the At the end, Swamishri gave samip darshan youths on stage and from a distance with the to all. audience. Then, recalling the Fuldol celebration in which had made a 12- 25 June 2017: Yuva Din door hindolo for Shriji Maharaj, Swamishri first Based on the theme ‘Evã Sãntne Nãmu Hu showered flower petals on the dancing youths. Shish’, the one-day shibir for youths began with Thereafter, youths gently swung Swamishri Swamishri’s puja in which the youths sang bhajans while he held Shri Harikrishna Maharaj in his extolling the glory of the Gunatit Satpurush. hands. Everyone in the audience also held the Later, Swamishri arrived in the morning assem- extended string and enjoyed rocking Swamishri bly. Swamishri participated in a question-answer on the hindolo. session, and then drew Nilkanth Varni’s face and Blessing the assembly, Swamishri said, “The under it wrote ‘Nilkanth Varni sathe priti’ – ‘Love Satsang is divine. Nobody needs to authenticate Towards Nilkanth Varni’. The youths attending a ` 1000 note. The government stamp on it is

36 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Youths seated in the Yuva Din assembly, Atlanta Balaks interact with Swamishri during Bal Din, Atlanta enough. Similarly, Maharaj has stamped all devo- shake hands with an elephant? Maharaj, Swami tees as divine. Now, if you do not accept, it is your and Pramukh Swami Maharaj are like the ele- loss. There is no place for negativity in Satsang. phant and we are like the ant. How great they are. “Shriji Maharaj says, ‘Even if a person does Yet they have allowed us to associate with them. not serve me, but if he sings the praises of devo- That is our great fortune. When an elephant [the tees then he is doing great service.’ There is no great] becomes like an ant [the ordinary], then authority beyond him. If one does not have faith we can enjoy the bliss of mukti. We should thank in his words, then what will one achieve? So, God that he has given us satsang. Don’t ever let keep faith in his words and see the positive only.” go of satsang. Otherwise there is no one more Then, the youths said, “Just as Pramukh Swami foolish than us in the whole universe.” Maharaj held your hand, he held our hands and Next, the Ruchi Quiz was held, in which entrusted them to you.” Hearing this, Swamishri Swamishri answered questions asked by the balaks. gestured as if placing everyone’s hands in the care Thereafter, Swamishri blew a whistle, prom- of Shri Harikrishna Maharaj. Then, seeing the ising to take everyone who heard the whistle youths hold each other’s hands as a mark of unity, to Akshardham. Swamishri blessed, “We have come to take you In the last activity, Swamishri blew soap bub- to Akshardham and will do so.” bles with the balaks and gave everyone great joy. Finally, blessing the assembly, Swamishri said, 26 June 2017: Bal Din “You are all firmly attached to Pramukh Swami In the morning, the balaks sang bhajans in Maharaj. This is the only requirement – if one is Swamishri’s puja. attached to God and his Sadhu, then moksha is The main evening Bal Din assembly began guaranteed. You are all attached to the manifest at 7.10 p.m. To begin with, balaks presented guru, so do not worry. You will attain moksha.” mimes which Swamishri deciphered and revealed the answers. 27 June 2017: Kishore Din Then, Swamishri was given a bodh katha title In Swamishri’s puja, one group of kishores and asked to depict it with a drawing. The balaks asked questions and the answer to each question instantly got the answer. Explaining the message, was presented by another group of kishores sing- Swamishri said, “Is it ever possible for an ant to ing an appropriate bhajan.

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 37 niyams. How can we observe the niyams with unfailing enthusiasm?” Swamishri replied, “Think of what you have attained. By observing niyams, Maharaj and his Sadhu are pleased. There is nothing greater than that. If you don’t observe niyams or practice satsang, then others may become pleased. But, what is the benefit of that compared to one’s attainment by pleasing Maharaj. With this un- derstanding, peer pressure and other factors are overcome.” In the main evening Kishore Din assembly, kishores presented mukhpath. Then, letters writ- Swamishri blesses the assembly on Kishore Din, Atlanta ten by kishores and kishoris to Swamishri were After puja, kishores presented Swamishri an sanctified by him. Thereafter, symbolically, invitation to the Kishore Din assembly and asked Swamishri placed one of the letters in a yagna him to respond and confirm that he would attend vedi and blessed all, “Maharaj and Swami forgives in writing. Jokingly, Swamishri wrote ‘May or everyone for their mistakes.” not’! Everyone burst into laughter at Swamishri’s Then, Swamishri participated in the Ruchi witty response. Quiz. Next, Swamishri was asked, “How can At 11.20 a.m., Swamishri arrived in the morn- we balance satsang and studies and progress in ing Kishore Din assembly. First, during a ques- both?” Swamishri guided, “Both are necessary. tion-answer session, Swamishri was asked, “We Through satsang, the mind becomes focused and know that we should not engage in abhav-avgun, we can study better. This period of life is slippery. but we see the faults in others’ actions. How can Kishore means ‘kis aur?’ – ‘Left or right?’ Left is we appreciate from within the divinity of all?” worldly desires, right is satsang. Satsang is very Swamishri replied, “As long as one has a body- necessary. Otherwise, one can end up lost. centric attitude, one will see the faults of oth- “Some say that because they have come to ers. But if one has a positive intention that ‘I do America they have to eat [meat] and drink [al- not want to take abhav-avgun’ then one will be cohol]. But, we are born to practice the Akshar- fine. However, if one is complacent one argues Purushottam upasana. At any cost, satsang must ‘We must call a thief as a thief’. Such arguments be sustained. If you are faced with a decision on are not valid in satsang. That we must not take whether or not to observe satsang niyams, then opt abhav-avgun is an absolute requirement. It is to to observe. Everything else is not of importance.” please Maharaj-Swami. If you are unemployed At the end of the assembly, Swamishri was and someone offers a million dollars, would you honoured with garlands. not do what that person says? Similarly, Maharaj- Swami are giving moksha. If you keep your focus 29 June 2017: Shishu Din on them, you will not engage in abhav-avgun.” At 7.40 p.m., Swamishri graced the evening Second question, “We enthusiastically un- Shishu Din assembly. dertake niyams. But, over time, that enthusiasm Narayanmuni Swami narrated the story of wanes due to laziness, peer pressure and other how the birds escaped from the net in which factors. So, we lapse in the observance of the they were trapped by a bird catcher. Then, the

38 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Swamishri participates in the Shishu Din programme, Atlanta shishus asked Swamishri, “What should we un- derstand from this?” Swamishri replied, “They all flew unitedly.” Next, Swamishri played ‘Shriji Says’, instruct- ing the shishus to do or not do various tasks. At one point, all the shishus failed. However, the compere reasoned, “Nobody has lost, since Shriji Maharaj has spoken through you. Correct?” Swamishri smiled in agreement. Thereafter, Swamishri performed actions to Swamishri answered, “I see you all as Yogiji indicate which niyams the shishus should observe Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Pramukh daily. Through his gestures, Swamishri instructed Swami Maharaj resides in you all. He also resides them to daily do mala, apply the tilak-chandlo in all the devotees.” and read satsang books. The shishu volunteers then honoured Then, three shishus recounted the time in Swamishri with a garland made of teddy bears. London when Pramukh Swami Maharaj had a While Swamishri was leaving the assembly, he cake cut and re-offered it to Thakorji. In memory sanctified the gifts to be given to the shishus and of this, Swamishri cut a decorated cake. also showered chocolates on the shishus seated on One shishu said, “If we daily do puja and tilak- stage and in the audience. Everyone was delighted chandlo, and bow down to everyone, will you stay by this unexpected darshan. near to us?” Swamishri happily replied yes. The shishu gradually went closer to Swamishri and 30 June 2017: Karyakar Din asked, “How near will you stay? This near? This At 7.10 p.m. Swamishri presided over the near?….” And, finally, he embraced Swamishri. Karyakar Din assembly. The audience erupted in applause and understood Swamishri was asked, “These karyakars are the that by observing niyams, Swamishri would be pillars of satsang. They bear the load, tolerate the close enough to embrace. nails and do great service. They sacrifice a lot. But, Finally, Swamishri was asked, “How do you what do you believe is the ideal way to do seva?” view balaks?” Swamishri guided the karyakars, “Seva is a

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 39 Swamishri with Shri Harikrishna Maharaj in front of Atlanta Mandir on the occasion of the mandir’s 10th Anniversary Celebration must. If one knows how to do it then no matter North America and many dignitaries. how much the workload, one will always be at The theme of the celebration assembly was peace. Shastriji Maharaj could have done every- ‘Mandir’. Over the past ten years, this mandir thing himself, but he gave everyone a chance to has inspired spiritual, moral, social, family, cul- serve. Remember, Swami knows everything and tural and national values in countless people of can do everything. But he grants us seva so that all backgrounds. we develop and our swabhavs are overcome. The assembly featured videos of the mandir’s “Our absence will not prevent the work from history, colourful cultural dances, skits, devotion- being done. From the time of Shastriji Maharaj, al songs and speeches. Devotees recollected their the activities of Satsang have grown. So, serve experiences over the past ten years, highlighting with enthusiasm. Do not be glum or reluctant. the activities and contributions of the mandir. Serve, believing it to be a great opportunity. God Among the dignitaries present were Georgia and his Sadhu create countless brahmands. So, Secretary of State Brian Kemp, Mayor of Lilburn what is one mandir [to them]? But, they give us Johnny Christ and Consul General of India in the chance to serve. In this way, our devotion and Georgia Nagesh Singh. Addressing the assem- inner strength increase. Shastriji Maharaj said, bly, Secretary Brian Kemp said, “The Mandir is ‘My work shall continue…’, whether you assist an asset to our state. I am honoured to be here or not. If you do not help, you will be left out. with His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. The Serve with the belief that it is our great fortune Mandir has touched the lives of over 2 million and it is for our moksha. people in these short 10 years. It is certainly one of the crown jewels of our state. 1 July 2017: Atlanta Mandir 10th Anniversary “At this time I would like to recognize His Celebration Holiness as an honorary Georgian, and say that In 2007, Pramukh Swami Maharaj consecrat- the doors of our great state are always open ed the beautiful traditional shikharbaddha mandir to you.” in Lilburn, Atlanta. Mayor Johnny Christ said, “The BAPS Mandir The mandir’s 10th anniversary celebration was over the past decade has served as a centre of held in the vast open mandir grounds in the pres- spirituality, harmony and service. ence of thousands of devotees from throughout “Therefore, I, Johnny Christ, the mayor

40 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 of Lilburn, hereby honour and welcome His harmony, love, service and unity… I convey to Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj to this city of him my heartfelt appreciation and admiration.” Lilburn by presenting him with the Key to the City and proclaiming July 1, 2017 as Mahant 6 July 2017: Symbolic Guru Punam Swami Maharaj Day in Lilburn.” Celebration Swamishri was honoured with a variety of gar- During the celebration assembly, Narayanmuni lands and then he blessed the celebration assem- Swami asked Swamishri, “Today, we are symboli- bly, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj has gifted us this cally celebrating Guru Punam. You have written beautiful mandir. His vision to build the mandir a whole book on your memories of Pramukh facing east was totally appropriate. Over the past Swami Maharaj. How were you able to do so?” 10 years, many have been inspired through the Swamishri answered, “It is because of what wide variety of activities. The real purpose of the Pramukh Swami Maharaj has done that there are mandir is to increase faith in God and over the so many satsangis today. Pramukh Swami Maharaj past 10 years, the Satsang has grown. genuinely cared for everyone in so many ways, “We have attained the manifest form of God every moment of his life and gave everyone so and his Sadhu. That is a big attainment, not pos- much joy. I saw in his life that whatever he did sible even through many sadhanas. was sincere. That is why we feel like doing any- “Those who have faith will gain brahmavidya. thing for him.” Maharaj came in human form. Over 500 para- Swamishri was asked, “What did you see in mhansas worshipped him as God. He gave them Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj much bliss. Such bliss continues and that is why that you became attached to them with to- we experience joy. tal dedication?” “Without satsang, one may outwardly appear Swamishri replied, “There was no pretence in to be happy, but inwardly there is no joy. With sat- Yogiji Maharaj. The same genuineness was evi- sang, one may appear to be outwardly in difficulty dent in Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s life. In this but that is not misery. One must ignore worldly everything is included.” joy and misery and give priority to satsang.” Blessing the assembly, Swamishri said, “Yogi Bapa had said, ‘To have nirdosh buddhi towards 2 July 2017: Day the Satpurush is true guru pujan.’ Believe that you After puja, Swamishri initiated two sadhaks have met the same form that is in Akshardham into the parshad-fold. here. Do not attribute any faults to him. To stay Blessing the assembly, Swamishri said, “The together with him and understand his glory is parents of these two youths deserve great credit, very difficult. But, by keeping nirdosh bud- since they are both their parents’ only sons. This there will be no problems.” At the end, is the highest level of sacrifice. The youths have Swamishri performed pujan of Pramukh Swami prayed, ‘May we obey the commands, control the Maharaj’s murti. mind and earn your blessings.’” In the evening assembly, Lieutenant Governor CHICAGO: 7–19 JULY of Georgia Casey Cagle was present. He praised 7 July 2017, Atlanta, Chicago Swamishri, “He is an individual with a very Swamishri departed from Atlanta and was large heart, a person who cares deeply about our greeted at the Chicago BAPS Mandir by joyfully world, deeply about our country and also deeply dancing balaks and kishores. Swamishri viewed about individuals. He has a mission to promote a beautiful rangoli designed on the theme ‘The

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 41 Devotees joyously welcome Swamishri, Chicago Satpurush Succession Is Eternal’ and blessed greeted by children and youths dancing and the devotees who had observed an 84-hour fast to devout atmosphere was palpable as Swamishri commemorate his visit. took his seat on the stage. At the conclusion of the assembly, Swamishri 8 July 2017: Mass Marriage Ceremony blessed, “We should live with unity with all; In the morning, while offering abhishek to with our family and relatives, with everyone in Nilkanth Varni, Swamishri especially prayed for America and throughout the world. God has the couples who would be getting married in the made everyone. We should remember this. We samuh lagna (mass marriage) ceremony today. are satsangis and this is the noble way of satsang. “We have attained Maharaj, Swami and the 9 July 2017: Guru Purnima Satpurush. That is our clear, straightforward un- After puja, Swamishri inaugurated the paint- derstanding. Never doubt this. If you doubt, you ing album on the life and work of Bhagwan will not experience the joy. So, pray to Maharaj Swaminarayan, Bhagwan Swaminarayan: A Saga and keep nirdosh buddhi towards the guru.” in Paintings. Then, after sadhus had performed pujan of Then Swamishri blessed, “Today is Guru Swamishri by applying sandalwood paste on his Punam. Throughout the world, gurus will be wor- forehead, the devotees had the opportunity for shipped. The disciple acquires the qualities of the Swamishri’s samip darshan. guru. Our guru is Akshar and he will take us to Akshardham. True guru pujan is to see everyone 15 July 2017 as divine. Why should we see the faults in others? Swamishri performed the pujan of bricks for Instead, sing the virtues of God and guru. Shun the newly planned BAPS mandirs in Indianapolis talks of abhav and avagun. To please the guru is and Louisville. guru pujan. To have nirdosh buddhi in the guru is guru pujan. By doing this, you have performed 16 July 2017: Pramukh Swami Maharaj guru pujan from wherever you are seated.” Smruti Din In the evening, Swamishri held Shri Harikrishna In the evening, in the centre of the stage, a Maharaj in his hands and entered the main Guru decorative Pramukh Mandiram was arranged, Punam assembly seated in a Mayur Rath. He was housing a (LED) screen on which various photos

42 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Swamishri seated humbly on stage during the Guru Purnima assembly, Chicago of Pramukh Swami Maharaj were continual- ly displayed. During the assembly, some of the dignitaries addressed the audience. Governor Bruce Rauner said, “It is a deep privilege, one of the most exciting moments of my life, to meet our new spiritual leader, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. We celebrate together the values that we share – the ideal of ‘samp’ – unity – and the ideal of ‘das no das’. Devotees enjoy Swamishri’s samip darshan, Chicago We are here on earth to help each other. We cel- ebrate the teaching ‘In the joy of others lies our presented the Key to the City to Swamishri. own.’ Therefore, I, Bruce Rauner, Governor of Children and youths celebrated Pramukh the State of Illinois, do hereby proclaim August Swami Maharaj’s life with a thematic dance, to- 13th, 2017 as Pramukh Swami Maharaj Day wards the end of which Swamishri waved a large in Illinois.” BAPS flag, acknowledging the upcoming cente- Mayor of Bartlett Kevin Wallace, said, “It’s nary celebrations of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. been such a great relationship between the village Finally, Swamishri blessed, “Shriji Maharaj, of Bartlett and BAPS. I can’t say enough about Gunatitanand Swami and Pramukh Swami what BAPS here in Bartlett has done for our com- Maharaj came on this earth and worked tirelessly munity.” The mayor also declared 9 July 2017 as to promote ekantik dharma. The shastras contain ‘Mahant Swami Maharaj Day’ in Bartlett. the concept of ekantik dharma, but it had been Mayor of Schaumberg Al Larson declared 13 forgotten. Without the upasana of Maharaj and August 2017 as ‘Pramukh Swami Maharaj Day’ Swami ekantik dharma cannot be realized. Only and presented Swamishri with a Key to the City. by becoming like Swami can one offer true devo- Mayor of Hanover Park Rodney Craig declared tion to Maharaj. We have that opportunity. So, we 9 July 2017 as ‘Mahant Swami Maharaj Day’. should become his devotee. If we do not become Mayor of Naperville Steve Chirico, togeth- ekantik, we remain incomplete and Maharaj’s er with leading businessman Krishna Bansal, goal is not accomplished. Only by becoming

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 43 Governor Bruce Rauner presents a proclamation in honour of Mayor John Tory presents the Key to the City of Toronto to Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Chicago Swamishri an ekantik devotee can one repay one’s debt to 20 July 2017: Mahant Swami Maharaj’s Pramukh Swami Maharaj. Pramukh Varni Din; Yuva Din Thereafter, the devotees also had the op- In Ahmedabad on 20 July 2012, Pramukh portunity to perform pujan of Pramukh Swami Swami Maharaj wrote a historic letter in which he Maharaj’s asthipushpa. established Mahant Swami Maharaj as the guru and president of BAPS. 17 July 2017 After puja, Swamishri inaugurated today’s In the morning, Swamishri sanctified the new Yuva Din by lighting the traditional lamp. He sinhasan of Milwaukee Mandir and the for also released a new custom postal stamp honour- the Sterling Heights Mandir. ing Pramukh Swami Maharaj. In the evening assembly, Swamishri blessed, TORONTO: 19–28 JULY “By not seeing the divinity in others, quarrels 19 July 2017, Chicago, Toronto arise. The virtue of divyabhav is like the sun Swamishri departed from Chicago and took a [constant] while other virtues are like the moon flight to Toronto. In Toronto Mandir, Swamishri [wax and wane]. By developing divyabhav, one’s was welcomed by devotees waving the mandir outlook changes. So, keep divyabhav. That is 10th anniversary celebration flags. Maharaj’s command.” To commemorate Swamishri’s visit, over 300 devotees had observed austerities. Swamishri 22 July 2017: Diksha Din; 10th Aniversary of blessed them all. Toronto Mandir In the evening welcome assembly, represent- After his morning puja, Swamishri initiated atives of local Hindu organizations honoured two sadhaks into the parshad-fold. Then he bless- Swamishri with garlands. ed the assembly, “Shriji Maharaj has said, ‘Only In his blessings, Swamishri said, “Maharaj, one with infinite merits is able to become a sad- Swami and the Satpurush – that is our clear prin- hu.’ Yogi Bapa used to say, ‘We want to make one ciple. Do not remain stuck in ego, anger, envy and lakh sadhus.’ There is nothing comparable to be- desires. If the principle is understood, then every- coming a sadhu in Maharaj, Swami and Shastriji thing can be accomplished. First, we have to imbibe Maharaj’s Sanstha. Moksha is 101% guaranteed. satsang, then it will spread throughout Canada. It is The devotees also attain moksha.” a delight to see the leaders of the Hindu organiza- In the evening, the 10th Anniversary of tions. Prayers that all progress with unity.” Toronto Mandir was celebrated in the presence of

44 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 “As I travel around the world representing Toronto, you are always with me because I have here, something that I believe blesses me, some- thing that I believe protects me, but more im- portantly than that, it reminds me every day of the friendship that I’ve been privileged to have with you and with the people of faith here at the BAPS mandir. And it also reminds me of the work that you do to promote love and care for others in this community. I applaud and recognize and Swamishri launches a postal stamp in honour of Toronto Man- bow down to your love for humanity, and your dir’s 10th anniversary commitment to the community which is demon- Mahant Swami Maharaj and the Prime Minister strated every single day. of Canada, the Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau. Other “And so to mark this special occasion, of the dignitaries present included His Worship John 10th anniversary of this mandir, I would like Tory, the Mayor of Toronto; His Excellency Mr. to present the Key to the City to His Holiness Vikas Swarup, High Commissioner of India to Mahant Swami Maharaj. The inscription reads as Canada; Premier of Ontario, Hon. Kathleen follows: “This recognition honours His Holiness Wynne; Hon. Kirsty Duncan, MP, Etobicoke as the 6th spiritual guru of BAPS. His Holiness North, Minister of Science; Dr Shafiq Qaadri, travels the world inspiring people with his in- MP, Etobicoke-North; and Deepak Chopra, sightful spiritual discourses and disciplined con- President & CEO, Canada Post. duct. The virtuous lifestyle and ideals to which When the prime minister arrived, he was wel- his Holiness adheres are what many people strive comed in a traditional manner with a garland. to achieve, and he is an inspiration for all young On the mandir podium, Swamishri and the people. His Holiness is the head of a worldwide Prime Minister saluted Canada and India while spiritual and humanitarian organization that both national anthems were sung. is dedicated to community service, peace, and Then, Swamishri and the Prime Minister harmony through Hindu principles. Toronto unveiled a plaque to commemorate this histor- has been enriched by many contributions from ic event. BAPS Charities Canada, and from the individual After darshan and arti in the mandir, the en- members of BAPS to health, disaster relief caus- tourage arrived on stage. es, and of the wellbeing of our community. The Some of the dignitaries addressed the assembly. unique BAPS mandir located in Toronto serves Mayor John Tory said, “As the as an architectural masterpiece, and adds to the mayor of the city of Toronto, multicultural mosaic of the city of Toronto and I say that on behalf of all of the of Canada.” people of the city of Toronto High Commissioner of India we are proud to have this mag- Vikas Swarup said, “Today, nificent and unique mandir this mandir is Canada’s place located in our beautiful city. The BAPS mandir is of peace. Today we celebrate an architectural masterpiece, carved out of faith not just the beauty contained and love in Canada’s largest city, an inspiration within this combination of for those who pray here and who gather here. stone and marble, we also celebrate the vision

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 45 Swamishri and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the mandir podium said, ‘It is not how well you arrange your words, but how well you arrange your heart that counts.’ Let us, on this tenth anniversary of this Swaminarayan Mandir, rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of peace, peace in our hearts, in our homes, in our nations and in all the world. Om Shanti, Shanti Shanti.” And then Prime Minister Trudeau addressed the gather- Swamishri presents an Amrut Kalash to ing, “It’s truly a pleasure and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau an honour to join you in cel- which animated this project and the devotion and ebrating 10 years of the BAPS dedication of thousands of worshippers and well- Swaminarayan Mandir as well wishers from Canada and beyond which lead to as the vibrant community that made this possible. its successful completion. It is without a doubt one of Canada’s architec- “Pramukh Swami Maharaj said, ‘In the joy of tural wonders with its intricate stone carvings. others lies our own, in the progress of others rests How fitting it is that when visitors come to our own, in the good of others abides our own.’ Canada through our largest airport, Pearson It was this emphasis on service to society, on in- International, one of the very first Canadian sites terfaith harmony, and peaceful co-existence that people see off Highway 427 is this mandir. I, for made Pramukh Swami Maharaj one of modern one, could not be more proud. Each year visitors India’s foremost spiritual thinkers. are always stunned to learn that no steel was used “I see this temple, not only as a vehicle for in its construction and it took only 18 months to community engagement and as a beacon of build. It was the vision of the late Pramukh Swami Canada’s diversity and pluralism, but also, as Maharaj and your determination and hard work a symbol of the friendship between India and that built this stunning temple for worshippers Canada, two great democracies that value diver- and visitors alike. But the mandir is more than sity and respect the rights of all citizens. just an architectural masterpiece, it is also a place “In the end, as Pramukh Swami Maharajji of community. This mandir truly embodies the

46 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 principles of openness and peace. For the past 10 Swamishri then presented the Amrut Kalash years the mandir has spearheaded initiatives and as a memento to the Prime Minister. helped those in need, both and non-Hin- To commemorate the mandir’s 10th anni- dus. You have touched the lives of countless versary, a new postal stamp of the mandir was Torontonians through charity and we thank you presented by Canada Post President and CEO for it. Your generosity, kindness and solidarity are Deepak Chopra to Swamishri to release. shaping Canada into a place we are all even prouder to call home. When I look around here 23 July 2017: Amrut Kalash Abhishek today I see a place that perfectly represents mod- As part of the mandir’s 10th anniversary cel- ern diverse Canada that we are all so proud to be ebrations, a special abhishek ritual was arranged. part of. Swamishri sanctified the kalashes placed in the “Your Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, thank circumambulatory passage by placing rice grains you for joining us here in Canada to celebrate the in them. Under the mandir dome, four murtis 10th anniversary. I hope you enjoyed your visit of Shri Harikrishna Maharaj had been placed. because we are so touched and honoured you’ve Swamishri offered abhishek to all four murtis and joined us today. Jai Swaminarayan.” at the same time, as per the mechanism set up, Blessing the celebration assembly, Swamishri abhishek was offered to Shri Akshar-Purushottam said, “Pramukh Swami Maharaj has gifted us this Maharaj in the central shrine. mandir. He lived every moment of his life ac- Then, Swamishri went to the haveli where cording to his motto, ‘In the joy of others, lies 2,000 yajmans were participating in the Amrut our own.’ He was always thinking of others – Kalash Abhishek ceremony. Here, Swamishri 24-hours-a-day. This mandir is the result of the sanctified the kalashes with flower petals. Then endeavours of the devotees and sadhus. Everyone Swamishri went to the marquee, where he per- has put in tremendous effort. Both human effort formed the Vedic murti-pratishtha rituals and and God’s grace are required, and God graces arti of the murtis for the new BAPS hari mandir those who endeavour. in Windsor. “Canada’s 150th anniversary and this man- In his blessings, Swamishri said, “Offer ser- dir’s 10th have both been celebrated today. Both, vice and devotion with faith and trust. With com- Canada and the mandir promote peace, love, har- plete trust, faith will flourish. Keep affection for mony and understanding. The mandir supports Maharaj, Swami and our gurus. All of them have many activities and encourages youths to serve. told us that ‘God is manifest’. Shastriji Maharaj Canada is a country that believes in diversity. Our has confirmed it, ‘The satpurush never leaves Hindu shastras also teach that the whole world is from this earth.’ So, now with such conviction, one family. This mandir brings people together offer devotion with humility.” and teaches everyone to live with unity. In the evening, Swamishi viewed the special “As we celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary exhibition prepared for the mandir’s 10th an- and this mandir’s 10th, I pray that Canada contin- niversary. The exhibition depicted the tremen- ues to progress in every way and everyone lives in dous joy Pramukh Swami Maharaj bestowed harmony. May the Prime Minister strengthen the on the devotees of Canada during his visits. It unity of the country. May the people of Canada also presented the 39 divine virtues described in enjoy happiness and peace. And may the man- the shastras and exemplified in Pramukh Swami dir continue to inspire all. May there be peace Maharaj’s life. throughout Canada and the world.” Then Swamishri attended the evening

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 47 Swamishri disperses the sacred ashes of Pramukh Swami Maharaj in the waters of Niagara, Canada assembly, celebrating Volunteers’ Day and ‘Holi 27 July 2017: Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s of Flowers’. Asthipushpa Visarjan The stage was decorated with a multitude of Thousands of devotees and well-wishers from flowers. Swamishri held Thakorji in his hands across North America and around the world gath- and sat on the hindolo. Then, he blessed the as- ered at Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, to witness sembly, “Shriji Maharaj brought the rangotsav Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Asthipushpa Visarjan with him from Chhapaiya. He liked this festival (dispersion of sacred ashes) ceremony. a lot. When Prahlad was victorious, the demons Pramukh Swami Maharaj had visited Canada splashed mud, while devotees sprayed colours. 12 times between 1974 and 2007. He visited and Shriji Maharaj has said, ‘Those who have God sanctified Niagara Falls for the first time on 27 on their side are victorious.’ Shri Krishna was July 1974, followed by multiple visits until 1990. with the Pandavas and even though they had a At Niagara Falls, he also visited the Floral Clock smaller army, they won. So, we should remain Park and prayed there for world peace; and also on God’s side. Keep faith and affection in God. performed a small ritual at the waters of Niagara. God is forever true.” Today, exactly 43 years later, on 27 July 2017, Then, the Pushpadolotsav was celebrated. Mahant Swami Maharaj visited Niagara Falls to First, Swamisri performed pujan and arti of perform Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Asthipushpa Thakorji and showered flower petals on all the Visarjan ceremony. murtis on stage. Then, senior sadhus showered During the ritual, prayers were offered for flowers on Swamishri and Swamishri showered world peace, for the wellbeing of the people of flower petals on the sadhus. Canada and all those who visit Niagara. Thereafter, the devotees approached in turn Devotees and well-wishers observed the ritual for Swamishri’s samip darshan and to be show- from a special observation area. ered from above with sanctified flower petals. As a part of the Niagara Parks Memorial On this occasion, Swamishri inaugurated a Tree Program, Mahant Swami Maharaj planted model of Toronto Mandir and two Swaminarayan a memorial tree in honour of guru Pramukh Aksharpith e-books: Perspectives and Hinduism: Swami Maharaj. Sacred Places and Holy Rivers. Remembering Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Swamishri blessed the special assembly, “Pramukh

48 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Swami Maharaj did so much for us; nothing is He disregarded his body and endured immense left. Our line continues. Shriji Maharaj willed, physical strain for us. The same attainment that Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami Maharaj people had in Maharaj’s time, we also have at manifested on earth and gave us so much joy present. So, we must remain in high spirits. till their last breath. The only thing they would Often, we wonder what we need to do. But trust like is for us to become ekantik. The fruit of our itself is our attainment. If we realize Pramukh countless sadhanas is this satsang. Now, we must Swami Maharaj and Yogiji Maharaj as they re- develop firm conviction in this upasana.” ally are, then we will experience Akshardham Thereafter, Swamishri performed pujan of here on earth.” the six asthipushpa kumbhs, one for each of the satsang regions in North America. At 7.22 p.m., 29 July 2017: 10th Anniversary of San Jose after the rituals and artis, Swamishri dispersed Mandir the sacred ashes from the first kumbh into the The central theme of the main evening 10th waters of Niagara. Then, at the pre-defined lo- anniversary celebration assembly was ‘Mandir’. cations, Swamishri, together with sadhus and The occasion was celebrated at the San Jose State devotees, dispersed the sacred ashes from the University Event Center. remaining kumbhs, while Vedic mantras and Swamishri was accorded a vibrant and colour- other verses were recited. The ceremony and ful reception as he entered the arena with Shri holy ash dispersion took place in accordance Harikrishna Maharaj and proceeded towards with local laws and with the help of the Niagara the stage. Park authorities. Several of the dignitaries present addressed The forecast was for rain and, indeed clouds the assembly. had gathered threatening to rain. However, due Assemblyman Kansen Chu to Swamishri’s prayers, the rain withheld until all said, “Thank you very much the ceremonies were completed. to the BAPS temple for your community services and your SAN JOSE: 28–30 JULY volunteer efforts over the last 28 July 2017, Toronto, San Jose 10 years. Also, it is a great Swamishri departed from Toronto and flew honour to receive and welcome Swamiji to join to San Jose. Children and youths welcomed all of us this evening.” Swamishri with a traditional dance. Swamishri Assemblyman Ash Kalra was then honoured with garlands and then he praised, “I know that his pres- blessed the devotees, “We have attained the ence brings us so much company of Maharaj, Gunatitanand Swami and warmth and so much love and the gunatit gurus. Through the Sant we have really a sense of spiritual con- become associated with God. If we understand nectedness with one another. this we will be fine. Otherwise we will remain “The Hindu faith continues to be a guiding clueless. Nobody can compare to Shastriji force for me. And there is no doubt that it is Maharaj, Yogiji Maharaj and Pramukh Swami spiritual leaders like (Mahant) Swami Maharaj Maharaj. Nobody’s actions are as pure as theirs. who guide us to live a righteous life so that we do Not even in the countless brahmandas will we the best that we can to make this world a better find someone like Pramukh Swami Maharaj. But place. Guruji, I am so grateful that you are grac- we attained him and he gave us so much bliss. ing us and honouring us with your presence here,

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 49 Swamishri presides over the San Jose Mandir 10th Annivesary Celebration at the San Jose State University Event Center

beyond maya. We have attained them. God is so compassionate and does not discriminate against anyone. Maharaj has said, ‘Whoever worships me will attain the highest moksha.’ We have at- tained this immense opportunity. Even by our darshan, others attain liberation. Wherever you go, by your pure actions, people attain liberation. If you observe the niyams and have nishtha then, through you Shriji Maharaj will grant liberation. but more importantly, I am grateful that you are Shriji Maharaj has said, ‘This satsang is superior making the world a better place by guiding all of to ashtanga .’ Bear this in mind and engage us along the righteous, spiritual path.” in all sadhanas. Then, God will be pleased. We Former Mayor of Milpitas Jose Esteves appre- should wish for the good of all, for the good of ciated, “We are very blessed with the presence of the world. With such sentiments, God will ac- His Holiness who spreads the message of peace, cept even our smallest gestures to be grand. God love, and harmony. Ten years ago in Milpitas, we never forgets them. Pleasing God will earn us were also very blessed because we had, then, His moksha and we will experience Akshardham here. Holiness the late Pramukh Swami Maharaj blessing Maharaj has said ‘My words are my form.’ So, Milpitas. Ten years later, this mandir keeps spread- offering heartfelt service and devotion with faith, ing the message of harmony, peace, dedication, understanding and affection will please God.” sacrifice, good character and non-violence.” Swamishri then blessed everyone, “Shriji 30 July 2017, Patotsav Maharaj manifested on this earth and opened In the morning, Swamishri performed the the gateway to liberation for countless people. patotsav rituals and arti. An annakut of various Whatever devotion and service we offer is minis- delicacies was offered. u cule and like child’s play before his greatness. God Translation by Sadhu Amrutvijaydas from report in is greater than we can ever imagine. Maharaj and Swaminarayan Prakash, September 2017 Swami are both eternally, since time immemorial,

50 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Historic Acclamation of the Akshar-Purushottam Doctrine in Kashi

Distinguished pandits of the Kashi Vidvat Parishad honour the Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha and Pujya Bhadresh Swami at the residence of the president

Brahmaswaup Shastriji Maharaj boldly promoted the true Akshar-Purushottam doctrine as revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan in the Vachanamrut and enshrined these dual forms in majestic mandirs. Brahmaswarup Yogiji Maharaj continued this work by not only building more mandirs, but inspiring sadhus to undertake detailed studies of the shastras and prepare doctorate theses. In this way, the learned scholar-sadhus of the BAPS who earned PhDs in the early seventies were Viveksagar Swami, Bhaktipriya (Kothari) Swami, Bhagwatpriya Swami and Shrihari Swami. Pramukh Swami Maharaj continued to build mandirs and further encouraged sadhus to engage in comprehensive studies of the shas- tras. This has resulted in around a dozen sadhus becoming PhDs. Among them, Pramukh Swami Maharaj particularly encouraged Bhadresh Swami to formally document the Akshar-Purushottam doctrine in accordance with accepted academic traditions. Thus, over the past decade, Bhadresh Swami has written numerous landmark texts that have been highly acclaimed by the academic community in India and abroad. The following reports relate to the latest text he has written – Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sud- ha: Parabrahman Swaminarayana Prabodhitam Akshara-Purushottama Darshanam.

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 51 Distinguished pandits honour and inaugurate theSwaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha at the residence of the Kashi Vidvat Parishad’s president University; Mahamahopadyaya Pandit Shivji Upadhyay, Mahamantri and Former Vice- Chancellor of Sampurnanand Sanskrit University; Acharya Ramnarayan Dwivedi, Mantri; and other council members – heralded the Prasthanatrayi- Swaminarayana-bhashya and the Swaminarayana- siddhanta-sudha: Parabrahman Swaminarayana Prabodhitam Akshara-Purushottama Darshanam as a new and unique contribution to the field of

President Ramyatna Shukla presents the acclamation Vedantic philosophy. statement to Bhadreshdas Swami The Shri Kashi Vidvat Parishad is a time-hon- ‘SWAMINARAYANA-SIDDHANTA-SUDHA’ oured council formed for the protection of Vedic ACCLAMATION BY THE SHRI KASHI dharma. This council is considered authoritative VIDVAT PARISHAD not just in Kashi, but throughout India, and is 31 July 2017, Varanasi, India viewed honourably and with great admiration Eminent scholars of the Shri Kashi Vidvat throughout India on matters regarding Vedic Parishad in Varanasi – an esteemed scholarly dharma and philosophy. It serves a decisive role council on Vedic studies council – felicitated in matters concerning Vedic principles and its Mahamahopadyaya Bhadreshdas Swami, head research. Only exceptional pandits in scholarly of the BAPS Swaminarayan Research Institute disciplines such as those of the , , at Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, Smruti texts, and vyakarana may partici- for his recent creation of the Swaminarayana- pate as members of this council. siddhanta-sudha, a vadagrantha that offers an Mahamahopadyaya Acharya Shri Ramyatna exposition, justification, and defense of the Shukla, President of the Kashi Vidvat Parishad, ar- Akshar-Purushottam Darshan’s philosophi- ranged this historic event at 9.30 a.m. at his own cal principles. residence. Commencing this event with man- Prominent committee members of Shri Kashi galacharan, members of the Parishad performed Vidvat Parishad – Mahamahopadyaya Acharya Shri pujan and arti of the sacred murtis of Akshar- Ramyatna Shukla, Adhyaksha; Mahamahopadyaya Purushottam Maharaj, guru parampara and the Acharya Shri Vashistha Tripathi, Upadhyaksha Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha text. Then, the and Former Vice-Chancellor of Sampurnanand Parishad members honoured Bhadreshdas Swami

52 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Inauguration of the Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha at the Bharat Adhyayan Kendra of Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi with garlands and puja. Therafter, Bhadreshdas Addressing the gathering, President Mahamaho­ Swami honoured members of the Parishad with padyaya Acharya Shri Ramyatna Shukla said, “I garlands and shawls. wish to announce that I have surveyed this text. On this historical occasion, Mahamahopadyaya I speak having reviewed its significant sections. I Pandit Shivji Upadhyay announced the follow- regard it to be well authored. I have seen the com- ing declaration: mentary that he has written. It is in every aspect • The Prasthanatrayi-Swaminarayana­bhashya Upanishadic. References have been placed through- and the Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha are out this text. References from the have sacred texts on Parabrahman Swaminarayan’s been given. I have seen all of this, bore witness to revealed Akshar-Purushottam Darshan. These it, and have spoken of it. Therefore, as the presi- sacred texts are in every manner the protectors dent of the Shri Kashi Vidvat Parishad and by the of the eternal Vedic religious tradition. consent of you all, I commend this text.” • Acclaimed by all scholars, respected Pandits of the Kashi Vidvat Parishad highlight- Mahamahopadyaya Sadhu Bhadreshdas is an ed that Bhadreshdas Swami is the only Sanskrit acharya and a contemporary commentator in the scholar to have written both a commentary on the lineage of commentators on the Prasthanatrayi. entire Prasthanatrayi and a vadagrantha – a text • Within philosophy, just as Shri Shankara’s which substantiates the philosophy propounded Vedanta is identified as the Advaita Darshan, in the commentary. Shri ’s Vedanta is identified as the Concluding the event, Mahamahopadyaya Darshan, Shri Madhva’s Vedanta Acharya Shri Ramyatna Shukla, Mahamaho­ is identified as the Dvaita Darshan, Shri ’s padyaya Pandit Shivji Upadhya and Acharya Vedanta is identified as the Ramnarayan Dwivedi signed and presented the Darshan, and others are respectively known; declaration to Bhadreshdas Swami. it is in every way appropriate to identify Shri Svaminarayana’s Vedanta by the title ‘Akshar- INAUGURATION OF THE Purushottam Darshan’. SVAMINARAYANASIDDHANTASUDHA AT • Therefore, we all collectively endorse that BANARAS HINDU UNIVERSITY this Akshar-Purushottam Siddhant that has been 31 July 2017, Varanasi, India revealed by Parabrahman Swaminarayan is dis- At about 2.30 p.m., distinguished schol- tinct from Advaita, Vishishtadvaita, and all other ars at the Bharat Adhyayan Kendra of Banaras doctrines and is a Vedic siddhant. Hindu University in Varanasi inaugurated and

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 53 Bhadreshdas Swami delivers the first discourse on the Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha on the sacred banks of River Ganga in Varanasi acclaimed the Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha: the text’s unique exposition. Other scholars also Parabrahman Swaminarayana Prabodhitam lauded this monumental text, praising its in-depth, Akshara-Purushottama Darshanam. profound, and unique philosophical exposition. Bhadreshdas Swami delivered a lecture at Bharat Adhyayan Kendra, Banaras Hindu THE FIRST DISCOURSE ON THE University. Over 150 distinguished scholars in- SWAMINARAYANA-SIDDHANTA-SUDHA cluding Professor Shri Girish Chandra Tripathiji, ON THE SACRED BANKS OF GANGA Vice-Chancellor of the Banaras Hindu University; 1 August 2017, Varanasi, India Shri Yadunath Prasad Dubeyji, Vice-Chancellor An assembly was organized by distinguished of the Sampurnanand Sanskrit University; Shri pandits of Kashi on the sacred banks of the Ramesh Kumar Pandeyji, Vice-Chancellor of Ganga in Varanasi to honour Mahamahopadyaya the Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Bhadreshdas Swami’s first discourse on the University; Shri Kamleshdutt Tripathiji and Shri Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha. Yugal Kishor Mishraji were present in the assembly. The location of the assembly held great signifi- After the traditional welcome and introductory cance because, about 216 years ago, on these very address, Bhadreshdas Swami delivered an insight- banks of the Ganga Bhagwan Swaminarayan, as ful and inspirational speech entitled ‘Sanskrutasya the young 10-year-old Ghanashyam, revealed a Samrajyam’, highlighting the importance of profound yet simple exposition on brahmavidya Sanskrit, the significance of Sanskrit sacred to the astonishment of the gathered assembly of texts and the core values that it serves to instil. Kashi’s pandits. Thereafter, the Swaminarayana-siddhanta- Today’s morning assembly was graced by the sudha was inaugurated with the distinguished presence of, among others, Mahamahopadyaya scholars participating in the ceremony. Acharya Reva Prasadji, Vice-Chancellor Acharya Thereafter, Shri Kamleshdutt Tripathiji, intro- Yugal Kishorji, Acharya Bhagavatcharan Shuklaji, duced the Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha to the Acharya Shivaram Sharmaji, Acharya Sadashiv assembly, commending the philosophical novelties Dwivediji, Acharya Upendra Tripathiji and and literary features of the text, and highlighting Acharya Pandit Upendra Pandeyji.

54 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Pandits of the Kashi Vidvat Parishad present acclamation plaques at Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi In the assembly, Bhadreshdas Swami highlighted the significance of the scriptural tradition and the depth of Indian philosophical thought. He also dis- cussed the importance of the Akshar-Purushottam Darshan and the exposition of its foundational philosophical principles, citing references from the Vachanamrut, Swamini Vato, the discourses of the guru paramapara, and relevant sections from the siddhanta patra – a concise note authored by Pramukh Swami Maharaj that elucidates the phil- osophical principles of the Akshar-Purushottam Darshan. He also expressed the philosophical sig- Impressed by the depth, novelty, and signifi- nificance of the term ‘Akshar-Purushottam’ and cance of the text, they conveyed their gratitude emphasized how Shastriji Maharaj was the first for Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Mahant Swami to precisely express Bhagwan Svaminarayan’s phi- Maharaj for inspiring such a scholarly work. losophy by using the term. The distinguished scholars present expressed RECOGNITION OF THE SWAMINARAYANA- great admiration for the Swaminarayana- SIDDHANTA-SUDHA BY THE SHRI KASHI siddhanta-sudha and complimented its exposi- VIDVAT PARISHAD tions as being substantiated on the authority of 13 August 2017, Swaminarayan Akshardham, the Prasthanatrayi – the three foundational sa- New Delhi, India cred texts of Vedanta darshan: the Upanishads, Prominent committee members from the Shri Shrimad Bhagavad Gita and the Brahmasutras. Kashi Vidvat Parishad presented letters of decla- They also acclaimed the text’s literary and schol- ration and endorsement for the Swaminarayana- arly composition and expressed that the Akshar- siddhanta-sudha: Parabrahman Swaminarayana Purushottam Darshan is a unique school of phi- Prabodhitam Akshara-Puru­shottama Darshanam. losophy revealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan that Members of the Kashi Vidvat Parishad, includ- is rooted in the shastras. ing Mahamahopadyaya Acharya Shri Ramyatna

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 55 Shuklaji, Mahamahopadyaya Acharya Shri of the Shri Kashi Vidvat Parishad presented it to Vashistha Tripathiji and Acharya Shri Ramnarayan Bhadreshdas Swami. Dwivediji, heralded the Prasthanatrayi- Then, Mahamahopadyaya Acharya Shri Svaminarayanabhashya and the Swaminarayana- Vashistha Tripathiji identified the Swaminarayana- siddhanta-sudha as new and unique contributions siddhanta-sudha as a unique contemporary work. to the field of Vedanta philosophy. Acharya Shri He added, “Inspired by Brahmaswarup Pramukh Ramesh Kumar Pandeyji, Vice-Chancellor of Shri Swami Maharaj, Bhadreshdas Swami framed the Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit University Akshar-Purushottam siddhant, as it was revealed and Acharya Shri Shivshankar Mishra also hailed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan, in the form of a the works. commentary. By doing this, he has substantiated After sharing the distinguished history and the Swaminarayan Sampradaya among scholarly significance of Shri Kashi Vidvat Parishad, circles. Without criticizing others, Bhadreshdas Acharya Shri Ramesh Kumar Pandeyji, said, Swamiji has expressed the doctrine in a simple, “The renowned scholars of the Shri Kashi Vidvat yet thoughtful manner that would appeal to ar- Parishad have declared the Swaminarayana- dent seekers of philosophy. For these reasons, the siddhanta-sudha: Parabrahman Swaminarayana Swaminarayana-siddhanta-sudha is undoubtedly Prabodhitam Akshara-Purushottama Darshanam a distinguished vadagrantha.” as a distinct authoritative text and have endorsed Regarding the scholarship of the the Akshar-Purushottam siddhant, which was re- Swaminarayanabhashya, Shri Vashisth Tripathi vealed by Bhagwan Swaminarayan.” commented, “All of the portions of the text that I Thereafter, the Vice-Chancellor of Shri Lal have read present evidence of concentrated schol- Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit University, stat- arship. There is no instance of plagiarism; it is tru- ed, “People misunderstand that the Swaminarayan ly a newly created work. I hope that future gener- tradition follows the Vishishtadvaita doctrine. ations may further the Swaminarayan Darshan.” Bhadreshdas Swami has performed admirable After Mahamahopadyaya Acharya Shri work by authoring the first complete epistemo- Vashistha Tripathiji had read a copper-plated logical work on the Swaminarayan tradition. plaque of declaration aloud, scholars of the Shri Adorned with Vedic references, mimam- Kashi Vidvat Parishad presented the plaque to sa, prameya mimamsa and karikas, this vadagran- Bhadreshdas Swami. tha spans over 460 pages and is divided into 9 Addressing the assembly, Bhadreshdas Swami chapters. Reflecting the scholarly style of the shad expressed his immense gratitude to the scholars darshan texts and the literary style of Sanskrit, the of Kashi for being present to pay a special and vadagrantha will become the paramount of the unique tribute to Pramukh Swami Maharaj and Indian scholastic tradition.” He further empha- for endorsing Parabrahman Swaminarayan’s sized, “Within the history of the Indian academic Akshar-Purushottam Darshan. He then humbly tradition: from the Vedas till the present day, it credited his scholarly works to the inspiration is the first time that a single person has authored and blessings of gurus Pramukh Swami Maharaj both a commentary on the entire Prasthanatrayi and Mahant Swami Maharaj. u and also a vadagrantha of one’s own sampradaya. I firmly believe that this vadagrantha will achieve great admiration throughout the world.” After Acharya Shri Ramnarayan Dwivediji had read the letter of endorsement aloud, scholars

56 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Mahant Swami Maharaj’s

May–June 2017 Ahmedabad, Sarangpur, New Delhi, London, Atlanta

Performs abhishek of murtis on the 55th Patotsav of Yogi Jayanti celebration, Ahmedabad Ahmedabad mandir

MAY be unity in your family, then the satsang mandal AHMEDABAD: 1–26 and thereafter in the whole world. Where there Mahant Swami Maharaj stayed in Ahmedabad is unity a lot can be achieved. India was ruled by to recuperate. He performed his daily puja in his foreign powers because of internal disunity and room and gave darshan to the devotees while go- differences (kusamp). Kusamp means a spoilt ing for Thakorji’s darshan every morning. After mind. From it arises odd things. Unity (samp) his recovery he gave morning and Sunday evening is a positive thing, whereas kusamp is negative. discourses from the jharukho (cabin) to the devo- Samp leads to happiness whereas kusamp spoils tees. During the day he attended to letters and everything. phone calls from devotees, read satsang books “Always be inclined about ‘what is right’ rath- and attended meetings. er than ‘who is right’. Yogi Bapa and Pramukh Swami Maharaj have taught us to sustain unity 2, Tuesday, 55th Patotsav and remain happy.” To celebrate the mandir’s 55th inauguration anniversary (patotsav) Mahant Swami Maharaj 14, Sunday performed abhishek of the murtis in the sanctum Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha sanctorum and the abhishek murti of Sahajanand rituals of the murtis for the BAPS hari mandirs in Varni with saffron-scented water. Navera (Marla region), Panchlai (Gorgam region) and Chapaldhara (Donja region). 7, Sunday In spite of physical weakness due to an ill- 23, Tuesday; Yogi Jayanti ness Swamishri discoursed from the jharukho Yogiji Maharaj’s 125th birthday celebra- to the devotees. He said, “I have one thing to tion was held in the mandir grounds. Pujya say – have a united family. First, there should Viveksagar Swami narrated inspiring incidents

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 57 intelligently. Shriji Maharaj, Gunatitanand Swami and the Guru Parampara have inspired them. Whatever that has been shown in the DVD is only a fraction of Nilkanth’s travels and strug- gles. What he did cannot be fully imagined. No one other than God could have done this. The DVD has been accomplished through the inspi- ration of Pramukh Swami Maharaj and it will inspire all.” Performs the murti-pratishtha arti from the life of Yogiji Maharaj. Thereafter, chil- SARANGPUR: 26 MAY–10 JUNE dren performed a traditional dance to a bhajan 26, Friday on Yogiji Maharaj. Then youths enacted a drama At 5.00 p.m. Mahant Swami Maharaj departed on how Colonel Bhatia (of the Indian army) was from Ahmedabad and reached Sarangpur Mandir impressed by Yogiji Maharaj. Finally, Mahant at about 7.30 p.m. He was welcomed by sadhus, Swami Maharaj blessed the assembly, “Yogiji youths and devotees. Maharaj’s calculations were different from those of our world. He prayed, ‘O Shastriji Maharaj, 28, Sunday may I be able to face the trials you set and bless The Yuva Talim Kendra (YTK) in Sarangpur, me with virtues to remain at your feet.’ One may which organizes two annual six–month satsang bear difficulties and tests when one is helpless training programmes for satsangi youths, cele- but Yogiji Maharaj faced them with pride and brated ten years since its inception. A grand cel- joy. When we are tested we become disturbed ebration assembly was held in Sarangpur. (For and stray off. details refer to Swaminarayan Bliss, July–August “Our calculations are based on dehbhav 2017, p. 63.) whereas Yogiji Maharaj’s were based on atmab- hav. We have to follow the latter.” 29, Monday; 67th Pramukh Varni Din During Swamishri’s morning puja sadhus 25 Thursday sang bhajans praising the glory of Pramukh In the evening satsang assembly Mahant Swami Swami Maharaj. Thereafter, Swamishri initiated Maharaj inaugurated an animation DVD on a youth into the parshad-fold and named him Nilkanth Varni’s travels, Nilkanth and the Snows Devvrat Bhagat. of the Himalayas produced by Swaminarayan In his blessings Swamishri said, “Shastriji Aksharpith. (For details refer to Swaminarayan Maharaj appointed Pramukh Swami Maharaj as Bliss, July–August 2017, pp. 59–60.) the president of BAPS. Swami Bapa did everything In his blessings Mahant Swami Maharaj said, possible for each and every devotee. Now, having “It is indeed difficult to believe how such a work attained such a guru, what remains to be done is has been accomplished in one corner of this man- to become like him. He pleased us and also bless- dir. Everyone involved has put in tremendous ed us. He soothed us in times of personal misery efforts. They have not seen day or night in this and provided support and encouragement.” project. All of them deserve to be congratulated. They did it in only twenty months. I used to 30, Tuesday go and watch them work. They have worked Swamishri peformed the murti-pratishtha

58 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Bal-Yuva Din, Sarangpur A festive presentation of the bhajan, ‘Ek Samay Amdāvādmā’ rituals of murtis for the BAPS hari mandirs in a drama, ‘Shriji Pragataj Chhe’, was enacted by Dhrangadhra – Shri Guru Parampara; Kosh children. Thereafter children played games with (Sankari) – Shri Akshar-Purushottam Maharaj, Swamishri: catching a ball thrown by Swamishri Shri Guru Parampara, and Shri Hanumanji and passing the ball. Swamishri also fed rotla to and Ganapatiji; Buhari (Sankari) – Shri Guru two children and a ripe mango to another child – Parampara; Varethpithya (Sankari) – Shri Akshar- all of whom had participated in the drama. Purushottam Maharaj. Swamishri blessed the assembly through a question-answer session. Finally, Swamishri was 31, Wednesday honoured with garlands. Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha rituals of murtis for the BAPS hari mandirs in 6, Tuesday Kharva, Dhutarpur and Bhesdad (Bhadra region). Swamishri inaugurated a book extolling the life of Gunatitanand Swami in Gujarati, JUNE ‘Suno Aksharni Motaai Re’, published by 1, Thursday Swaminarayan Aksharpith. Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha rituals of murtis for BAPS hari mandirs in the AHMEDABAD: 10–13 Junagadh region: Upleta, Majevadi, Moti Maarad 11, Sunday and Bhayavadar. In the evening satsang assembly 160 balaks made a wonderful festive presentation on the 2, Friday bhajan ‘Ek Samay Amdãvãdmã’. Thereafter Swamishri performed the murti-pratishtha small skits about studies and satsang, kusang and rituals of murtis for the BAPS hari mandirs in satsang, and satsang activities were performed Nahaar (Atladra region), Dora (Atladra), Jhanjhva and thereafter Swamishri gave guidance through (Poshina, Himmatnagar) and Jatruda (Amreli). his blessings. In conclusion, Swamishri inaugurated a 4, Sunday; Bal-Yuva Din website for bal pravrutti karyakars, an audio Swamishri presided over the special even- CD Sant Samagam, Parts 1 to 10, audio CD of ing assembly for balaks and yuvaks from the parayan by Viveksagar Swami along Sarangpur region. While Swamishri was ap- with Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s blessings, a pen- proaching the open assembly hall outside drive containing 16 inspiring dramas and a DVD Yagnapurush Mandapam he was welcomed about ‘Suryapur Kathamangal’. with a traditional dance by youths. After arti,

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 59 asthipushpa in the River Thames, London. More than 3,000 devotees witnessed the ritual. (For details, refer to Swaminarayan Bliss, July–August 2017, p. 62.)

ATLANTA: 21–30 21, Wednesday; London, Atlanta After his morning puja Swamishri inaugurated an e-book by Swaminarayan Aksharpith: Invaluable Performs arti in Swaminarayan Akshardham, Delhi Scriptures of Brahmavidya – Vachanamrut and NEW DELHI: 13–15 Swami ni Vato. It is available on Amazon.com. 13, Tuesday At 4.50 p.m. Swamishri, sadhus and devo- Swamishri departed from Ahmedabad at 6.00 tees departed from London Heathrow airport to p.m. by flight and arrived at the Delhi Mandir at Atlanta, USA. They landed in Atlanta at 8.23 p.m. 8.30 p.m. He was given a traditional welcome by (1.23 a.m. GMT) and reached the mandir at 9.34 children and Akshardham sevaks. p.m. (2.34 a.m. GMT) amidst a devotional wel- come. Swamishri lit a lamp to inaugurate his sat- LONDON: 15–21 sang vicharan in the USA. After doing Thakorji’s 15, Thursday; Delhi to London darshan Swamishri retired at 10.55 p.m. (3.55 At 10.45 a.m. Swamishri and his entourage of a.m. GMT). sadhus and devotees departed by British Airways from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New 23, Friday Delhi for his satsang vicharan abroad – ‘Swamina At about 7.00 p.m. Swamishri was welcomed Pagle Pagle.’ (For details, refer to pp. 30–50.) by a marching band and showers of flower petals On arriving in London Swamishri took din- by children and youths into the welcome assem- ner at 6.45 p.m. (11.15 p.m. IST) and retired at bly. (For details, refer to pp.34–35) 7.32 p.m. (12 midnight IST). 24, Saturday 17, Saturday At 7.00 p.m. Swamishri attended the Rath At the London mandir, Swamishri attended the Yatra festival assembly and operated the rath Bal-Kishore-Yuvak-Sanyukta (BKYS) shibir in the with Thakorji in it. Swamishri inaugurated two morning. Swamishri blessed all through a ques- e-books by Swaminarayan Aksharpith: Royal Path tion-answer session. In the evening Swamishri at- of Brahmavidya – Swaminarayan Sadhana and tended the welcome assembly. (For details, refer Hinduism – Sacred Texts. (For details, refer to to pp. 32–33.) pp.35–36.)

18, Sunday 25–27, Sunday, Monday & Tuesday After completing his morning puja in the man- Yuva Din (25), Bal Din (26) and Kishore Din dir hall Swamishri flagged off the annual spon- (27) were celebrated in Swamishri’s presence. sored walk. (For details, refer to Swaminarayan (For details, refer to pp.36–38.) u

Bliss, July–August 2017, pp. 65–66.) (From Swamishri’s daily report in At 6.00 p.m. Swamishri ritually performed Gujarati by Sadhu Brahmavatsaldas. the immersion of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Translation of excerpts by Sadhu Vivekjivandas)

60 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 LIVING WITH SWAMISHRI June 2017 Inspiring incidents from the life of Mahant Swami Maharaj

JUNE BLESSES EVERYONE Swamishri: Through interaction and spiritu- 2, Sarangpur al association. After doing darshan at the Yagnapurush Smruti Aspirant: How can I do that, because it is not Mandir, Swamishri sat in a golf car to go to the possible to be with you all the time? assembly hall to perform his morning puja. On Swamishri: Through one’s mind (mental the way Swamishri was looking at each and every association). devotee standing for darshan and blessing them. Aspirant: Does this mean that through mental At that time an attendant sadhu started narrating a association you hear us and are always with us? problem of a devotee to Swamishri, but Swamishri Swamishri: Yes. remained engrossed in blessing the devotees. Aspirant: How do you reply when we men- Subsequently, the attendant sadhu paused for a tally ask you? while and then re-commenced, but Swamishri did Swamishri: Once you start doing it you’ll get not divert his attention from the devotees. Again answers from within. the attendant sadhu stopped speaking and started Aspirant: Who are you? explaining after some time. Then Swamishri re- Swamishri: Satpurush. Our clear understand- strained him, saying, “Afterwards.” ing is that we have the association of Maharaj, Swamishri always desires to attend to each and Swami and Satpurush. every devotee and fulfil their wish to be blessed. i i i KEY TO A RELAXED MIND A CANDID DIALOGUE 4, Sarangpur An extract from an inspiring dialogue between A doctor rang Swamishri and asked, “It a spiritual aspirant and Swamishri is as follows: seems you worry a lot because of the increased Swamishri: Just as there are royal families in responsibility upon your shoulders [after becom- some countries, ours is a divine family. One may ing guru]?” witness others’ swabhavs but they should be ig- Swamishri replied with ease, “No [worries].” nored. Everyone is divine. One should not react The doctor asked further, “What do you like but tolerate. By retorting to others how can one to do?” mould oneself. Swamishri revealed, “Bhajan and meet Aspirant: How can I become attached to you? devotees.”

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 61 In spite of mounting responsibilities Swamishri “Thakorji can see through the clouds.” is always at ease because of his rapport with Then an attendant offered a glass of juice to Bhagwan Swaminarayan and practice of unceas- Swamishri. After taking a sip Swamishri gave it ing bhajan. back to the attendant sadhu, who unintention- ally placed it before Thakorji. On seeing this, PHENOMENAL MEMORY Swamishri told the attendant sadhu to take the 6, Sarangpur used glass away because it was inappropriate to Someone stated to Swamishri that two years have placed it before Thakorji. ago Amolbhai of Sakore, Dhuliya, now a sadhak Swamishri’s supreme devotion to Thakorji in Sarangpur, had walked 700 km from Dhuliya is evident from the way he perceives and re- to Sarangpur alone for Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s spects Thakorji. darshan and good health. The attendant sadhu reminded Swamishri, “At that time we were here PRAYING FOR RAINS in Sarangpur and had met him.” Immediately 25, Atlanta Swamishri replied, “No, we met him in Surat.” After having breakfast, Swamishri reclined on Swamishri’s memory is truly phenomenal. his bed for his routine nap at 8.20 a.m. Shortly thereafter he got up earlier than usual and sat on ONENESS WITH SWAMI BAPA his bed. The attendant sadhus asked, “Swami, are 13, Ahmedabad to Delhi you not well? Is there any difficulty?” Hitesh Patel (Contact) and Dipen Patel in- “No.” formed Swamishri, “Today is the 13th, and ten “Then why are you sitting in this manner? months to this very day and time Pramukh Swami What has happened?” Maharaj departed for Akshardham. Thereafter, “I am praying.” we had prayed to you, ‘May we bond with you.’ “For what?” And we have bonded with you in such way that “For the rains to shower in India so that all when we meditate on Swami Bapa you naturally devotees become happy.” appear shortly thereafter in our mind. We expe- “When do you pray?” rience the same joy now as we did with Swami “Daily.” Bapa. We feel that Bapa has not gone.” Swamishri ignored his own comfort and sleep Swamishri pointed his finger to his chest and to pray for the welfare of others. revealed, “Ena ej chhe [He and I are the same].” ABSOLUTE OBEDIENCE TO HIS GURU PERCEIVING ABSOLUTE DIVINITY IN 27, Atlanta THAKORJI Swamishri was asked why he was inclined 15, Delhi to London towards eating baked puffed rice (mamra) for Swamishri and sadhus were on a flight to breakfast. He recalled, “I was a parshad at that London. As the plane was cruising over Russia time and was with Yogiji Maharaj in Nadiad. Swamishri told the attendant sadhu to take Whenever we had to travel by train there was a Thakorji by the window so that He could look great chance of getting a fast due to the crowd down and bless the country. Someone stated, touching us. So, I used to take a heavy breakfast “Swamishri, because of the clouds the land can- or meal. That morning, in Nadiad, there was pa- not be seen anymore.” tarveliya for breakfast. I decided to eat more of To everyone’s amazement Swamishri replied, them. However, when someone came to serve

62 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 them in my bowl, Yogiji Maharaj stopped him Swamishri replied, “I do, but I don’t eat them.” and said, ‘Don’t serve them. He doesn’t like pa- Swamishri had given up his own inclination to tarveliya, he likes mamra.’ So from then on I’ve abide by the guru’s wish, thus reflecting his total been eating mamra.” dedication and obedience to his guru. u The attendants asked, “So, you don’t like (From Swamishri’s daily report in patarveliya?” Gujarati by Sadhu Brahmavatsaldas. Translation of excerpts by Sadhu Vivekjivandas) ANSWERS AND REVELATIONS May–June 2017 When questions were posed to Mahant Swami Maharaj he revealed his spiritual understanding, perspective and, sometimes, his own spiritual state. Let us see some of his fascinating answers and revelations

n The ways to resolve a negative attitude are A. Swamishri replied, “Mahima.” to cultivate the spirit of ‘In the joy of others lies (19 May, Ahmedabad) our own’ and secondly to have nirdosh buddhi in all. Q. Rahuldas Swami asked, “Pramukh Swami (4 May, Ahmedabad) Maharaj and yourself have shown that the cause of pain and misery in life is ego and attachment. n It is very easy to attain God – give up one’s How can we eradicate these two things? mind’s resolves and obey His words. A. Understanding God’s glory [mahima]. (5 May, Ahmedabad) Without this it is not possible to erase them. (24 May, Ahmedabad) Q. Roshan Bhagat asked, “What should we do to bond with you and increase our love for you? n To sustain one’s guru’s prestige and

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 63 glory [laaj] one must abide by moral regulations n Swamishri was requested to fill in the an- [dharma-niyam] and be a polite speaker [use nual sponsored walk registration form. In the vani-vivek]. column regarding name Swamishri wrote ‘Sadhu (28 May, Sarangpur) Keshavjivandas’ and against his address he wrote ‘Akshardham’. n One has to divinize one’s mind. When (17 June, London) one’s mind becomes divine then all problems will be solved. n Swamishri was told, “Today is Father’s Day (30 May, Sarangpur) and the tradition here is that the son gives a gift to his father. We are all your sons, thus what gift can Q. Roshan Bhagat asked Swamishri, “What we give to you?” Swamishri replied, “Mahima. should we do to increase your trust and faith Understand each others’ mahima.” in us?” (18 June, London) A. “Loyalty [vafadari].” (13 June, Delhi) Q. What do you experience in your life? A. Peace. During a quiz in a satsang assembly in London, Q. When did you first meet your guru and UK, Swamishri gave answers to a series of ques- what was your experience? tions posed to him. A. I first met him when I was 18 years old. Q. When you were at home which was your Before that I felt something was missing, but on favourite game? meeting Yogiji Maharaj I experienced fulfilment. A. Football. I bonded with him instantly and felt as if we had Q. Which is your favourite kirtan? a past connection. A. ‘Swamiji to Mahãpratãpi Enu Dhãryu Thãy.’ (19 June, London) Q. Which sweet item would you offer to Thakorji? Q. Which one out of the three types of con- A. Mesub. templation is the best and will give us eternal joy; Q. Which flower would you chose to offer 1. Mahima (glory) 2. Prapti (divine attainment) to Thakorji? 3. Rajipo (to please God and guru)? A. Mogro. A. Prapti. Q. According to you which one virtue was Q. How can we always get happiness important in the life of Yogiji Maharaj? from satsang? A. Guna grahan – to see virtues in others. A. Swamishri showed a kesar mango and said, Q. Which is your favourite Vachanamrut? “Yogiji Bapa used to say that by perceiving virtues A. Gadhada III 5. in all one will experience sweetness in life like the Q. Which is your favourite text? juice of kesar mangoes . By seeing good traits in A. Purushottam Boliya Prite. others, having mahima and divyabhav one will Q. According to you which one aspect was experience intense joy. But when one finds faults unique in the life of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. in others then one’s life turns sour.” u A. His tolerance. (26 June, Atlanta) Q. Which is your favourite place? (From Swamishri’s daily report in A. Gondal mandir. Gujarati by Sadhu Brahmavatsaldas. Translation of excerpts by Sadhu Vivekjivandas) (17 June, London)

64 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj Meets Former President Barack Obama 5 September 2017, Washington DC, USA

At 11.55 a.m. on 5 September 2017, His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj was also pleased to learn Mahant Swami Maharaj met former President that one of President Obama’s priorities in his post- Barack Obama in Washington DC. The meeting was presidency is preparing the next generation of lead- arranged as part of Mahant Swami Maharaj’s efforts ers. The two leaders then discussed how they could in North America to share universal Hindu messages work collaboratively on this key effort in preparing and foster public dialogue on service and the im- the next generation of public servants. portance of unity in communities and in the nation. With reference to the Indian American com- Mahant Swami Maharaj honoured President munity, President Obama spoke about how, like in Obama with a garland as part of a traditional Hindu other immigrant communities, the second genera- greeting and presented an Amrut Kalash. Mahant tion often engages more fully in civic life, making Swami Maharaj also gifted President Obama a sanc- America theirs. The two leaders agreed that more tified mala and a copy of Transcendence, a book needed to be done to encourage young South written by former Indian President Dr APJ Abdul Asians to pursue careers in public service. Mahant Kalam about his spiritual experiences with Pramukh Swami Maharaj and President Obama both spoke Swami Maharaj. about how encouraging service requires encour- The two leaders discussed the role of BAPS man- aging individuals to see goodness in one another. dirs in communities around the United States and Mahant Swami Maharaj specifically explained the world. President Obama appreciated how BAPS the Hindu principle that each individual soul is mandirs have served as houses of worship and also as divine, and so service of each individual is a self- community centres catering to society’s diverse so- less act of devotion. cial and humanitarian needs. In particular, President Mahant Swami Maharaj took time to specifi- Obama took note of the vibrant children and youth cally praise President Obama when he learned programmes that take place in BAPS mandirs. (Contd. on pg. 70)

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 65 S News BAP

INDIA Sarangpur Mandir campus, including Pramukh BRAHMASWARUP PRAMUKH SWAMI Mandiram, Sarvasva and the Sant Ashram. MAHARAJ’S FIRST PUNYA TITHI The day concluded in the evening with the main 13 August 2017, Sarangpur Smruti Sabha in the mandir grounds, where 12,000 devotees witnessed the emotional pro- gramme based on the theme: ‘Pramukhji Apnu Roon Chukvu Hu Sha Vade?’ (Pramukhji, How Can I Repay My Debt to You?) Mahant Swami Maharaj gave blessings via a pre-recorded vid- eo, as well as a surprise live telephone call from Houston, USA. Kothari Swami, sadhus and devo- tees then performed arti. All felt the joy of reviv- Brahmaswarup Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s ing the old memories of Pramukh Swami Maharaj First Punya Tithi (the first anniversary of his and a feeling that he is still with us today through passing away to Akshardham) was commemo- Mahant Swami Maharaj. rated in Sarangpur in the presence of Pujya Bhaktipriya (Kothari) Swami, sadhus and hun- BAPS FLOOD RELIEF WORK IN THE dreds of devotees. VILLAGES OF NORTH GUJARAT In the morning, a special mahapuja was held 28 July to 1 August 2017 at Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s Smruti Mandir. The light rain slowly came to a stop during the prayers as Kothari Swami led the dhun for gu- ruhari Mahant Swami Maharaj’s health, for the attainment of ekantik dharma by all devotees, for the welfare and wellbeing of all, for the speedy completion of Akshardham in North America, for the construction of a grand Smruti Mandir honouring Pramukh Swami Maharaj, and for Due to the heavy monsoon rains, many vil- Mahant Swami Maharaj to continue Pramukh lages in the Banaskantha region of north Gujarat Swami Maharaj’s legacy by himself initiating were severely affected by floods. 1,000 further sadhus. The BAPS Mandir in Deesa prepared 125,000 This was followed by the Pramukh Smruti food packets, which five teams of sadhus and Sabha in the Pramukh Darshan Vatika, in which volunteers distributed to residents in 100 flood- divine memories were shared through videos affected villages of the region under the guid- and speeches. Sadhus and devotees took part ance and support of the collector, mamlatdar and in a unique Pramukh Darshan Yatra – a walk- other officials. Also, the teams distributed 5,000 ing tour of over 25 sanctified spots across the food ration kits (consisting of grains, flour, salt,

66 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 sugar, spices, oil, tea, drinking water and other Mandir in Dadar, Mumbai, were left stranded and items) in 7 villages. unable to reach home. Despite the mandir also In addition, a total of 66,000 food packets being flooded, at short notice, the sadhus and prepared at various BAPS mandir in Gujarat were volunteers cooked and served hot food till 12.30 provided to the state government for distribution a.m. and provided overnight accommodation at by government agencies. the mandir. Over 3,000 commuters were served and provided overnight sanctuary from the heavy, ANTAR JAGRUTI PARVA persistent rains. 23 August to 1 September 2017 Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan As part of the six-month BAPS Yuva Talim UK Kendra course, 184 youths undertook vich- UK BAL-BALIKA MANDAL SUMMER aran to 460 villages in Gujarat, Maharashtra TRAINING CAMP and Rajasthan. 21–25 July 2017, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Divided in 46 groups, each of four youths, they Mandir, London visited a total of 4,916 homes, inspiring young and old devotees to perform daily personal puja, visit the local mandir for darshan, attend the weekly satsang assembly, daily read the Vachanamrut and Swamini Vato, conduct a regular ghar sabha (family assembly), observe a fast on ekadashi, etc. The youths conducted 460 satsang assemblies, 218 children’s assemblies and 229 assemblies in schools – in which 53,940 children participated. More than 80 selected youngsters from They arranged evening ‘bhakti feris’ in which throughout the UK gathered for a residential sum- over 6,100 devotees participated. In addition, mer camp in the presence of Pujya Ishwarcharan they encouraged around 3,800 people to shed Swami and visiting sadhus from India. their addictions. The five-day programme comprised interac- tive and informative sessions which strengthened COMMUTERS HELPED DURING their spiritual knowledge and life skills. TORRENTIAL DOWNPOUR Morning discourses explored valuable life les- 29 August 2017, Mumbai sons from the Vachanamrut which helped them to understand the importance of serving God and others. They were encouraged to daily read the Vachanamrut and guided on how to apply its lofty teachings in daily life. The children learnt about Hinduism, the tradi- tions of the Swaminarayan faith and the Akshar- Purushottam upasana, Hindu rites and rituals, the nine types of spiritual devotion, and techniques Due to the unexpected torrential rains in to cherish one’s experiences with the Satpurush Mumbai, commuters travelling from the Dadar and use them to develop an abiding spiritual con- Railway Station opposite the BAPS Swaminarayan nection with him.

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 67 They also had training in communication Mahamandir that all Hindus could proudly iden- skills, public speaking, and essential satsang tify as their own. values, including unity, self-discipline and an- Thousands of devotees from throughout USA ger management. and Canada attended these special ceremonies. Contemporary issues were addressed through role play and interactive presentations. Challeng­ SHRI GHANSHYAM MAHARAJ ABHISHEK ing group activities tested their intelligence, dex- MURTI-PRATISHTHA terity and creativity. 2 September 2017, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan The value of a solid education was empha- Mandir, Robbinsville, NJ sized, encouraging the children to be industrious in their studies. The five days built a sound, holistic foundation in an enjoyable environment and ensured that the children utilized their vacation time productively.

NORTH AMERICA SWAMINARAYAN AKSHARDHAM STAMBH Mahant Swami Maharaj performed the murti- PUJAN pratishtha ceremony of the abhishek murti of Shri 3–4 September 2017, Robbinsville, NJ Ghanshyam Maharaj and inaugurated the artisti- cally mesmeric Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj Abhishek Mandapam. Thereafter, he offered the first ab- hishek to the murti of Shri Ghanshyam Maharaj with the waters of 108 holy rivers from India. In his blessings, Mahant Swami Maharaj prayed that may all who perform darshan and ab- hishek experience infinite peace, spiritual growth and that their wishes be fulfilled. The two-day Swaminarayan Akshardham Stambh Pujan ceremony took place in the divine BAPS NORTH AMERICAN LEADERSHIP presence of Param Pujya Mahant Swami Maharaj SEMINAR and Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami. 30 August to 1 September 2017, Amidst Vedic chants, Mahant Swami Maharaj Hotel Sheraton, Philadelphia, PA performed this pujan ceremony over four ses- Over 1,100 BAPS volunteers convened for the sions. Countless volunteer hours of service BAPS North American Leadership Seminar in the and many prayers culminated in the installa- presence of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj. tion of the first marble pillar of Swaminarayan Centred on the theme of ‘Samp: Vartan, Akshardham. In this spiritually charged celebra- Vani, Vichar’, seminar delegates gained a deeper tion, which included dances infused with devo- understanding of unity and its importance not tion and pillars symbolizing paramhansas from only in individual spiritual development, but Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s time, devotees recol- also in working effectively with others in order lected Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s vision to build to perform their roles. They were guided by in- the 13-pinnacled Swaminarayan Akshardham spiring speeches by Pujya Ishwarcharan Swami,

68 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 Hamilton and Wellington. A total of 266 balaks and 264 balikas, and 112 kishores and 111 kishoris participated in the Adhiveshan Day activities. In addition, a total of 448 children and youths participated in the Non- Adhiveshan Day activities. Countless hours were spent in the past six months by all participants to learn and prepare for the adhiveshans. The Anandswarup Swami, Narayanmuni Swami and adhiveshans were supported by the efforts of 356 Atmaswarupdas Swami. judges and 32 admin volunteers who managed and Mahant Swami Maharaj also gave numerous coordinated the adhiveshans at their local centres. blessings throughout the course of the seminar. In The adhiveshan challenges were in two dif- addition to emphasizing the importance of unity, ferent sections: he also offered practical nuggets of wisdom on 1. Non-Adhiveshan Day – Participants were how to incorporate it into daily life, including given three months to express their talent in differ- maintaining niyams and developing uncondi- ent activities by submitting their entries online in tional respect for one another. any of the six different activities: Graphic Design, Overall, volunteers were inspired by the inspi- PPT Presentation, Research Paper, Photography, rational spiritual messages throughout the semi- Group Sabha and Multimedia Presentation. nar and guided towards earnestly doing their best. 2. Adhiveshan Day – Participants had to showcase their abilities in any number of the 16 activities, such as, Solo Singing, Mono Acting, Asia Pacific Vachanamrut Nirupan, Rangoli, and others. BAL-BALIKA & KISHORE-KISHORI In each of the 22 skill challenges participants ADHIVESHANS were assessed by the judges and prizes were 10 June to 29 July 2017, Asia Pacific awarded to the first three in each event. There were separate categories for balaks, balikas, kishores and kishoris. The adhiveshans increased the spiritual knowl- edge of the children and youths and also fostered their talent in various skills.

Africa As a part of Pramukh Swami Maharaj’s NATIONAL BAL-BALIKA SHIBIRS Shatabdi Mahotsav celebrations, Bal-Balika & July to August 2017, East Africa Kishore-Kishori Mandals in Australia and New Over 650 balaks and balikas from throughout Zealand held their second regional level adhive- East Africa attended the three five-day National shans. The adhiveshans took place during June Shibirs, themed ‘Asmita: Pride for Satsang’ held and July 2017 in the presence of BAPS swamis in Nairobi, Kenya; Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania; and in 11 centres: (in Australia) Adelaide, Brisbane, Jinja, Uganda. Canberra, Darwin, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney; Through interactive presentations by BAPS (in New Zealand) Auckland, Christchurch, swamis, the children were able to strengthen their

September–October 2017 u Swaminarayan Bliss 69 and preserving biodiversity across the world. Its current campaign aims to plant one billion trees by 2025 to which BAPS Charities contributed $100,000 to plant 70,000 trees in 2016. The walk in Canada supported Tree Canada’s national initiative to plant 10,000 trees in Canada and the lifesaving work of the William Osler Health System. understanding of God, Siddhant, Shastras and Satpurush based on examples from the lives of QUARTERLY BLOOD DONATION DRIVE Bhagwan Swaminarayan and the Guru Parampara. Mayfair, Johannesburg, South Africa The shibir also featured group discussions, skits, 18 June 2016 question-answer sessions, workshops, team-build- BAPS Charities hosted its quarterly blood ing activities, audiovisual presentations, exciting donation drive in support of the South African evening programmes and a cultural exhibition, National Blood Service (SANBS). On this occa- providing insightful and practical guidance for sion, a total of 40 pints of blood was collected the children to apply in their daily life at home thanks to the community and members of the and school. public who responded to the call to donate.

WINTER WARMER PROGRAMME BAPS Charities Johannesburg & Durban, South Africa BAPS CHARITIES WALK GREEN 2017 June 2017 This year, BAPS Charities Walk Green 2017 or- As part of it annual Winter Warmer Programmes ganized at 70 cities across North America attracted across the country, BAPS Charities donated blan- more than 23,000 participants to walk and raise kets, food and clothing to the Ubhule Bezwe awareness about BAPS Charities and its many Child Care Centre in Johannesburg, which cares community activities. In total, nearly 69,000 for children who have been abandoned by their miles were walked to support environmental and families, are orphans or suffer from HIV-AIDS. humanitarian activities of BAPS Charities. In Durban, BAPS Charities volunteers also In this year’s walkathon participants of all ages distributed blankets, food and clothing to the came out to support the Nature Conservancy and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, its Plant a Billion Trees campaign. The Nature Brooklyn Heights Primary School in Chatsworth Conservancy’s efforts focus on protecting habitats and an informal settlement outside of Durban. u

(Contd. from pg. 65) fear no fall. He that is low, no pride. He that that President Obama had set aside time, even is humble ever shall have God to be his guide.” during his presidency, to have dinner with his Mahant Swami Maharaj noted that he saw this family five nights a week. Mahant Swami Maharaj humility in President Obama, remarking how it greatly values unity in all of the building blocks has been noted that the President took the time to of society, especially families. Mahant Swami look after and care for his staff while in office. As Maharaj was also touched by President Obama’s Mahant Swami Maharaj was departing, President humility, sharing with the President a verse from Obama respectfully bid him farewell by saying a John Bunyan poem, “He that is down, need “Jai Swaminarayan”. u

70 Swaminarayan Bliss u September–October 2017 MAHANT SWAMI MAHARAJ IN LOS ANGELES, CA, USA 1–10 August 2017 1. Swamishri greets youths and devotees at the mandir. 2. Youths and devotees interact with Swamishri during an evening satsang assembly. 3. Swamishri blesses devotees during a satsang assembly in the mandir grounds.

71 “Swaminarayan Bliss”, September–October 2017. Published on 5/09/17 Posted at Ahmedabad, P.S.O. 5th on Bi-Monthly, RNI-33411/79

MAHANT SWAMI MAHARAJ IN USA, SEPTEMBER 2017 1. On 3–4 September, Robbinsville, NJ, Mahant Swami Maharaj ritually worships the first pillar of Swaminarayan Akshardham in a mahapuja, whose pujan was performed by Pramukh Swami Maharaj in Sarangpur. Over the two-day mahapuja 20,000 devotees participated. On 4 September Mahant Swami Maharaj ritually placed the stone on its actual location in Akshardham. 2. Swamishri performs the Vedic consecration rituals of the Ghanshyam Maharaj abhishek murti, Robbinsville, NJ (2 September). 3. Mahant Swami Maharaj with former President Barak Obama in Washington DC (5 September). Printed and Published by Sadhu Swayamprakashdas on behalf of Swaminarayan Aksharpith and Printed at Swaminarayan Mudran Mandir, Shahibaug Road, Ahmedabad - 380 004 and Published from Swaminarayan Aksharpith, Shahibaug Road, Ahmedabad - 380 004. Editor: Sadhu Swayamprakashdas. 72